bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biotin functionalized poly(sulfonic acid)s for bioconjugation: In situ binding monitoring by QCM‐D
Authors: Slavin Stacy , De Cuendias Anne , Ladmiral V. , Haddleton David M.
Published: January 2011

We describe the synthesis of biotin end functionalized poly(sulfonic acid)s via living radical polymerization (LRP) for conjugation to Avidin. Quartz crystal microbalance (QCM‐D) and competitive binding studies were used to confirm this conjugation. A biotin initiator for copper‐mediated LRP was used to provide acrylamide and methacrylate based polymers with the functional end group. This investigation revealed that 2‐acrylamido‐2‐methyl‐1‐propanesulfonic acid was not a suitable monomer in its acid form but was successfully used in its sodium salt form. A second monomer, 3‐sulfopropylmethacrylate as the potassium salt was also studied and both monomers produced polymers with polydispersities <1.3 and 1.4, respectively. Evolution of molecular weight with respect to time indicated that the polymerization of the acrylamide polymer is controlled. Quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation monitoring was used to confirm that the biotinylated polymers were able to bind to Avidin in situ. The gold surface of a quartz crystal was chemically modified resulting in a stable monolayer of Avidin; the biotinylated polymers were passed over the functionalized surface and their grafting ability was examined. A competitive binding evaluation was undertaken with 2‐(4‐hydroxyphenylazo)benzoic acid (HABA) dye to provide visual verification of conjugation. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2011
Improving the initiation efficiency in the single electron transfer living radical polymerization of methyl acrylate with electronic chain‐end mimics
Authors: Nguyen Nga H. , Rosen Brad M. , Percec Virgil
Published: January 2011

Computational studies on the heterolytic bond dissociation energies and electron affinities of methyl 2‐bromopropionate (MBP) and ethyl 2‐bromoisobutyrate (EBiB) in the dissociative electron transfer (DET) step of single electron transfer living radical polymerization (SET‐LRP) of methyl acrylate (MA) combined with kinetic experiments were performed in an effort to design the most efficient initiation system. This study suggests that EBiB is more effective than MBP in the SET‐LRP of acrylates catalyzed by Cu(0) wire, thus being a true electronic mimic of the dormant PMA species. EBiB allows for a more predictable dependence of the molecular weight evolution and distribution. This is exemplified by the absence of a deviation in the PMA molecular weight from theoretical values at low conversions, as a result of a faster SET activation with EBiB than with MBP. The enhanced control over molecular weight evolution was also observed in the SET‐LRP of MA initiated with bifunctional initiators similar in structure to MBP and EBiB, suggesting a higher reactivity than MBP in the SET activation, which matches closely that of the polymer dormant chains. The use of bifunctional initiators in conjunction with activated Cu(0) wire in SET‐LRP allows for dramatically accelerated polymerizations, although still providing for exceptional control of the molecular weight evolution and distribution. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2011
Atomistic modeling of peptides bound to a chemically active surface: conformational implications
Authors: Curcó David , Revilla‐López Guillem , Alemán Carlos , Zanuy David
Published: January 2011

This work presents a computational strategy to model flexible molecules tethered to a metallic rigid surface. The method is based on a previously developed procedure for inert surfaces, in which peptide–surface interactions were not considered. This procedure is able to generate uncorrelated relaxed microstructures at the atomistic level of systems containing relatively high densities of peptides tethered to the surface. The reliability of the strategy has been tested by simulating CREKA (Cys‐Arg‐Glu‐Lys‐Ala), a short linear pentapeptide that recognizes clotted plasma proteins and selectively homes to tumors, covalently tethered to a gold surface, results being compared with those obtained when the surface was represented as inert. The results indicate that the whole conformational profile of CREKA presents some correlation with the chemical activity of the surface, even though the bioactive conformation was found as the most favored in all cases. Specifically, simulations reflect that consideration of the peptide‐surface interactions affect the geometrical orientation of the side chains, whereas the main chain conformation does not undergo significant modifications. Copyright © 2011 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Impact of fixed charges at interfaces on the operation of top‐gate carbon nanotube field‐effect transistors
Authors: Ohno Yutaka , Moriyama Naoki , Kishimoto Shigeru , Mizutani Takashi
Published: January 2011

To control the properties of carbon nanotube field‐effect transistors (CNFETs), it is important to understand the properties of various interfaces in the devices and their effects on device characteristics. Here, we studied the influence of interface fixed charges introduced between the gate insulator and the substrate on the operation of a top‐gate CNFET, using device simulation. The simulation results suggest that with the existence of interface charges, the current modulation mechanism of the CNFET changes from Schottky barrier modulation to channel potential modulation. The minority carrier injection in the OFF state is suppressed by the high‐potential region formed near the contact electrodes by the interface charges. (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Anomalous reflection properties in high density limit fibril shaped PIC‐J aggregates in microcavity structure
Authors: Obara Yuki , Saitoh Keita , Oda Masaru , Tani Toshiro
Published: January 2011

We report our recent observations on anomalous reflection properties of organic microcavity containing PIC J‐aggregates in fibril‐shaped structures as one of their highest‐density limiting case. Even in ordinary low density PIC‐Js dispersed in polymer matrices, they easily go into the exciton‐photon strong coupling regime and new quantum states, i.e. exciton‐polaritons, are formed. Vacuum Rabi‐splitting, an indicator of the coupling strength, can be controlled by the density of PIC‐Js in the microcavities in low density regime. Fibril‐shaped PIC‐J aggregates are bundle‐like, self‐assembled higher‐order structure of Js and are considered as a high‐density limiting case. Angular dependence of the local reflection spectra are observed by our improved microscopy. While in the low density cases, clear anti‐crossing behaviours of the two branches appear, which is the evidence of the polariton formations, the highest‐density limiting cases show one or two anomalous reflection dip structures with almost no angular dependence. The result is inconsistent with neither ordinary polariton reflection property nor bare exciton nor cavity photon properties. We tentatively consider that the anomaly is inherent to the fibril formation and is caused by possible breakdown of polariton coherence due to the inter‐fiber energy transfer. (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Modeling data with structural and temporal correlation using lower level and higher level multilevel models
Authors: James Gareth , Zhou Yinghui , Miller Sam
Published: January 2011

Novel imaging techniques are playing an increasingly important role in drug development, providing insight into the mechanism of action of new chemical entities. The data sets obtained by these methods can be large with complex inter‐relationships, but the most appropriate statistical analysis for handling this data is often uncertain – precisely because of the exploratory nature of the way the data are collected. We present an example from a clinical trial using magnetic resonance imaging to assess changes in atherosclerotic plaques following treatment with a tool compound with established clinical benefit. We compared two specific approaches to handle the correlations due to physical location and repeated measurements: two‐level and four‐level multilevel models. The two methods identified similar structural variables, but higher level multilevel models had the advantage of explaining a greater proportion of variation, and the modeling assumptions appeared to be better satisfied. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Geographic distance and corporate acquisitions: signals from IPO firms
Authors: Ragozzino Roberto , Reuer Jeffrey J.
Published: January 2011

This paper examines acquisitions of firms after they have undergone initial public offerings (IPOs). Combining insights from information economics with recent research on geographic distance in various market settings, the analysis investigates whether the presence or absence of different signals on IPO firms has an impact on the geographic proximity of acquirers. The central proposition we develop and test is that specific characteristics of IPOs—venture capitalist backing, investment bank reputation, and underpricing of issued shares—convey signals on these firms, which can facilitate acquisitions by more remote acquirers who are more likely to face the risk of adverse selection. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A New Approach to Solution‐Phase Gold Seeding for SERS Substrates
Authors: Tabakman Scott M. , Chen Zhuo , Casalongue Hernan Sanchez , Wang Hailiang , Dai Hongjie
Published: January 2011

Surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) vastly improves signal‐to‐noise ratios as compared to traditional Raman scattering, making sensitive assays based upon Raman scattering a reality. However, preparation of highly stable SERS‐active gold substrates requires complicated and expensive methodologies and instrumentation. Here, a general and completely solution‐phase, seed‐based approach is introduced, which is capable of producing gold films for SERS applications on a variety of substrates, not requiring surface modification or functionalization. SERS enhancement factors of ≈107 were observed. Moreover, solution‐phase gold film deposition on highly complex surfaces, such as protein‐coated bioassays, is demonstrated for the first time. Protein bioassays coated with such SERS‐active gold films are combined with bioconjugated single‐walled carbon nanotube Raman labels, affording highly sensitive detection of the cancer biomarker, carcinoembryonic antigen in serum, with a limit of detection of ≈5 fM (1 pg mL−1).
Zum Last‐Verformungsverhalten von Schrauben in vorgespannten Ringflanschverbindungen mit überbrückten Klaffungen im Hinblick auf die Ermüdungsvorhersage
Authors: Feldmann Markus , Naumes Johannes , Pak Daniel
Published: January 2011

Im Rahmen des europäischen RFCS (Research Fund for Coal and Steel) Projektes HISTWIN werden seit 2005 Untersuchungen an konventionellen Ringflanschen im Hinblick auf die Ermüdungssicherheit der Verbindungsmittel durchgeführt. Hauptaugenmerk liegt hierbei auf der Prüfung von Methoden zur Instandsetzung von Flanschimperfektionen und den daraus resultierenden Klaffungen. Werden diese nicht ausgebessert sondern lediglich “beigezogen”, so führt dies zu erhöhten Ermüdungsbelastungen und einem vorzeitigen Versagen des Verbindungsmittels. Deswegen werden hier wesentlich zuverlässigere Alternativen der Überbrückung von Flanschklaffungen mit Hilfe von Futterblechen und expliziten Vorspannabfolgen vorgeschlagen. Zum Nachweis der Wirksamkeit dieser einfachen Reparaturmethoden wurden Versuche durchgeführt und ausgewertet, welche den Schluss zulassen, dass bei sachgemäßer Reparatur der Flanschklaffungen mit keiner reduzierten Lebensdauer der Verbindungsmittel zu rechnen ist.

Load‐deformation behaviour of preloaded bolts in ring flange connections with bridged gaps with regard to a fatigue behaviour prediction. Within the scope of the European research project RFCS (Research Fund for Coal and Steel) HISTWIN, conventional ring flange connections have been studied focusing on the fatigue resistance these connections. Often these ring flange connections provide certain imperfections like gaps etc. unless they are machined. Without repairing these gaps result in an increased fatigue loading of the bolt and an early failure of the connection. Therefore reliable alternatives for retrofitting these gaps by means of lining plates are proposed for which two methods have been studied. Furthermore large scale tests have been performed at ring flange connections to prove the effectiveness of the proposed retrofitting methods. It could be found that repairing of the gap‐imperfection as proposed in the paper leads to an unreduced fatigue life of the bolts.
Das Kuppelmodell des Münchener Hauptbahnhofes geprüft von der Materialprüfungsanstalt Stuttgart
Authors: Reiss Hanna
Published: January 2011

Zur Zeit des Nationalsozialismus wurden viele Städte umgebaut und gigantische Gebäude geplant. Viele NS‐Großbauprojekte sind heute noch bekannt. Unbekannt hingegen sind die unzähligen Bauprojekte die nie realisiert wurden. Der geplante Hauptbahnhof der “Hauptstadt der Bewegung München” ist nur eines der vielen nicht realisierten Projekte. Ihm ging eine sorgfältige Planung und Dokumentation voraus. Das Universitätsarchiv Stuttgart ist im Besitz von Akten der Materialprüfungsanstalt (MPA) Stuttgart, unter denen sich auch die Akten für ein statisches Modell des geplanten Münchner Hauptbahnhofes befinden.

The dome model of the Munich Main Station checked through the Materialprüfansalt Stuttgart, Germany. At the time of the National Socialism would many cities new constructed and giant buildings were planned. Many of the NS‐projects are still known today. But unknown are the reams of building projects which never would realized. The planned main station for the “Capital of movement Munich” is only one of many unrealized projects. A careful planning and documentation preceded it. The archive of the University Stuttgart is in the possession of documents of the Materialprüfanstalt (MPA; material control institution) of Stuttgart. Under those also are the documents for a static model of the planned Munich Main Station.
Bauwerk‐Boden‐Interaktion bei lagenweise hinterfüllten Stahlwellblechdurchlässen
Authors: Pittino Gerhard
Published: January 2011

Vorgeformte Stahlwellblechplatten werden vor Ort zu Rohren, Bögen oder Stahlwellblechdurchlässen zusammengebaut. Für die Tragfähigkeit der flexiblen, erdverlegten Stahlrohre ist die seitliche Bettung durch die Hinterfüllung mit Bodenmaterial ausschlaggebend. Während dem Hinterfüllen entwickelt sich der Erddruck, der zuerst alleine durch den kleinen Biegewiderstand des Rohres getragen werden muss. Die Biegemomentverteilung bleibt nach dem Verfüllen bis zum Rohrscheitel nahezu “eingefroren”. Der vorliegende Beitrag behandelt die Bauwerk‐Boden‐Interaktion anhand von numerischen Berechnungen mit dem Ziel, den Hinterfüllvorgang so zu gestalten, dass die Biegemomente klein bleiben.

Soil‐structure interaction of structural plate steel underpasses backfilled in layers. Curved corrugated steel plates are field assembled into pipes, arches, underpasses and other shapes. The lateral bedding that is responsible for the load bearing capacity of the flexible, earth embedded steel pipe is provided only by way of backfilling with soil material. The earth pressure that develops by backfilling must be solely born at first by the small bending resistance of the pipe. The bending moments remain nearly “frozen” after backfilling up to the top. This paper deals with the soil‐structure interaction. This is shown by means of numerical calculations with FLAC as to how the steel conduit should be backfilled so that the bending moments remain small.
The new Guillemins station – a railway station for high‐speed trains
Authors: Crémer Jean‐Marie , de Ville de Goyet Vincent , Counasse Clément , Duchêne Yves , Fagnoul Véronique
Published: January 2011

In Liège, the existing railway infrastructure was not capable of being properly used by high‐speed trains. A number of elements handicapped the site of the old station: curved platforms that were too narrow, an approach speed to the station that was too low, numerous track intersections and poor positioning of the Brussels‐Germany line, even though it carries the most traffic. In comparison with the old building, the route through the new station has been moved 150 m in order to meet two requirements:

– to enable straight platforms which make it easier for trains to enter and leave the station and for passengers to embark and disembark;

– to establish a harmonious link between the station and the nearby motorway network.

This link with the motorway network is provided by a bridge and a viaduct, designed by Santiago Calatrava. This Hillside entrance to the station has the advantage of the availability of a car park with 600 parking spaces, immediately next to the platforms. The station now has nine tracks and five platforms 8 m wide, thus allowing people to move around more freely. Three of the platforms, 450 m long, can accommodate double‐unit HSR units.
Gunshot Injuries in the Elderly: Patterns and Outcomes. A National Trauma Databank Analysis
Authors: Lustenberger Thomas , Inaba Kenji , Schnüriger Beat , Barmparas Galinos , Eberle Barbara M. , Lam Lydia , Talving Peep , Demetriades Demetrios
Published: January 2011

Background

Trauma in the elderly (≥55 years) accounts for a significant proportion of admissions to trauma centers. Our understanding of the epidemiology and outcomes associated with penetrating injury in this age segment of the population, however, is severely limited. The aim of the present study therefore was to investigate the incidence and type of injuries sustained by elderly patients from firearms and the impact of age on outcomes.

Methods

This was a 5‐year National Trauma Databank (NTDB) study. Injury demographics, mortality rates, and lengths of stay in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and the hospital were analyzed. Elderly patients ≥55 years old were assigned to one of three categorical strata: 55–64 years old, 65–74 years old, and ≥75 years old.

Results

During the study period, 98,242 patients were admitted for firearm‐related injuries, and 3,190 (3.2%) of them were ≥55 years old. Within the elderly age segment of the population, 1,676 patients (52.5%) were 55–64 years of age, 727 (22.8%) were 65–74 years of age, and 787 (24.7%) were ≥75 years old. The incidence of severe trauma [Injury Severity Score (ISS) ≥ 16] in the elderly age strata was 43.3, 46.8, and 57.6%, respectively (p < 0.001). Patients ≥75 years old were significantly more likely than patients 55–74 years old to suffer self‐inflicted injuries. The most commonly encountered injury in elderly patients was gunshot wounds to the head, which increased in a stepwise fashion with advancing age (25.8, 31.6, and 39.4% respectively; p < 0.001). The crude mortality rate in all patients sustaining gunshot wounds increased progressively with age. Within the elderly age segment, mortality ranged from 28.5% in the age stratum 55–64 years, to 55.4% in the stratum ≥75 years (adjusted p < 0.001). Intensive care unit and hospital length of stay increased with advancing age but peaked and remained stable among the elderly age groups. An admission Glasgow Coma Score (GCS) ≤ 8, an ISS ≥ 16, hypotension on admission, age, self‐inflicted injury, and injury sustained by assault were factors independently associated with death in patients ≥55 years.

Conclusions

Injury from firearms is not uncommon in the elderly patient population and is primarily a result of self‐inflicted gunshot wounds to the head. These patients sustain a high burden of injury and a high rate of mortality, which increases with advancing age.
Cases and Literature Review of Breast Sparganosis
Authors: Koo MinYoung , Kim Jung‐Han , Kim Jee Soo , Lee Jeong Eon , Nam Seok Jin , Yang Jung‐Hyun
Published: January 2011

Background

Sparganosis is a seldom encountered disease of the breast. Based on the results of previous studies and our own experience, we investigated the clinical characteristics of breast sparganosis.

Method

Four patients who were treated for breast sparganosis at Samsung Medical Center were included in the study, and additional data were retrieved from the Index Medicus and the Science Citation Index (SCI). The Korean Medical (KM) database and the Korean Association of Medical Journal Editors (KAMJE) database were searched to include information from Korean journals that is not included in international citation indexes.

Results

Among 35 patients, 8 (32%) had a record of oral ingestion of an intermediary host. All patients presented with a breast mass, with migration in 6 cases (25%) and pain or an itching sensation in 6 cases (25%). Elongated tubular structures were found in the subcutaneous layer in 22 cases (88%) during radiologic exam. All patients underwent complete surgical excision. Twenty‐seven of 29 (93.1%) patients’ spargana was separated and confirmed grossly. Histologically, granulomatous inflammation was the most common feature. A single worm was extracted in 16 cases (76.2%) and 5 cases (23.8%) had multiple worms.

Conclusion

Sparganosis tends to present as a suspicious mass in the subcutaneous layer of the breast. Complete surgical excision is the treatment of choice, with careful postoperative surveillance.
Reverse Airflow in Certain Chest Drains May be Misinterpreted as Prolonged Air Leakage
Authors: Stouby Anna , Neckelmann Kirsten , Licht Peter B.
Published: January 2011

Background

Prolonged air leakage is common after lung resection. We observed that during deep inspiration some patients were able to empty the water‐seal of commercial chest drainage systems and retract air back into the chest tube, which subsequently escaped during the following expiration, mimicking “true” air leakage. This led us to perform in vitro and in vivo pressure measurements in chest tube systems and investigate possible relationships with “false” air.

Methods

Commercially available one‐ and three‐chamber drainage systems were used as models for large and small water‐seals, respectively. Digital pressure measurements were performed in vitro and in ten selected patients with clinical suspicion of reverse airflow.

Results

Repeated measurements in the laboratory demonstrated that in three‐chamber chest drainage systems with small water‐seals a negative pressure below −30.4 cmH2O led to emptying of the water‐seal with retrograde flow of air. Retrograde airflow was not possible in one‐chamber chest drainage systems. In vivo measurements demonstrated that six of ten highly selected patients were able to create negative pressures below −30.4 cmH2O during deep inspiration.

Conclusion

During deep inspiration some patients are able to create negative pressure large enough to empty small water‐seals in commercial chest drainage systems and retract air back into the chest tube. This excess air escapes during the following expiration and may mislead interpretation of continued air leakage even when there is none, subsequently resulting in prolonged and unnecessary chest tube drainage. Any surgeon who treats patients with chest tubes should be aware of this phenomenon.
Levels of Community Engagement in Youth Violence Prevention: The Role of Power in Sustaining Successful University‐Community Partnerships
Authors: Nation Maury , Bess Kimberly , Voight Adam , Perkins Douglas D. , Juarez Paul
Published: January 2011

Previous research indicates that communities can be engaged at various levels in research to reduce youth violence. In this paper, we argue that the method of power sharing among partners is a central factor distinguishing different levels of engagement. Using cases from the Nashville Urban Partnership Academic Center of Excellence, we identify community initiation and community collaboration as distinct approaches to community engaged violence prevention research. The power relationships among partners are analyzed to highlight differences in the types of engagement and to discuss implications for establishing and sustaining community partnerships. Also, the implications of levels of engagement for promoting the use of evidence‐based practices are discussed.
Essential Elements for Community Engagement in Evidence‐Based Youth Violence Prevention
Authors: Miao Tai-An , Umemoto Karen , Gonda Deanna , Hishinuma Earl S.
Published: January 2011

In the field of youth violence prevention, there has been increasing emphasis on “evidence based” programs and principles shown through scientific research as reaching their intended outcomes. Community mobilization and engagement play a critical role in many evidence‐based programs and strategies, as it takes a concerted effort among a wide range of people within a community to alter behavior and maintain behavioral change. How do concerned individuals and groups within a community engage others within and outside of that community to effectively plan, develop and implement appropriate EB programs as well as evaluate the outcomes and impacts of locally developed programs yet to be proven? The authors discuss five elements essential for community engagement in evidence‐based youth violence prevention based on their work in a university‐community partnership through the Asian/Pacific Islander Youth Violence Prevention Center (API Center), a National Academic Center for Excellence on Youth Violence Prevention Center supported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. They include: (a) aligning EBPs with a community's shared vision and values; (b) establishing an inclusive environment for the planning, implementation and evaluation of EBPs; (c) nurturing collaboration for increased effectiveness and efficacy of EBPs; (d) building adequate leadership and community capacity to develop and sustain EBPs; and (e) building a learning community for evaluation and self‐reflection. The authors propose placing greater emphasis on “evaluative thinking” and organizational capacity for evaluation as we pursue evidence‐based practices for youth violence prevention. This is especially important for ethnic groups for which an evidence base is not well established.
“You Have to Sit and Explain it All, and Explain Yourself.” Mothers’ Experiences of Support Services for Their Offspring with a Rare Genetic Intellectual Disability Syndrome
Authors: Griffith Gemma Maria , Hastings Richard P. , Nash Susie , Petalas Michael , Oliver Chris , Howlin Patricia , Moss Joanna , Petty Jane , Tunnicliffe Penelope
Published: January 2011

The experiences of mothers of adult offspring with Angelman, Cornelia de Lange, or Cri du Chat syndrome have not been previously explored in research. The current study focuses on experiences with social and medical services and the impact the rareness of an adult offspring's syndrome has on the experiences of mothers. Eight mothers of adults with Angelman, Cornelia de Lange, or Cri du Chat syndrome were interviewed. Thematic Content Analysis was used to interpret the interviews. Four themes emerged from the analysis: (i) The rarity of their offspring's syndrome, (ii) Uneven medical and social care service provision, (iii) The inertia of social care services, and (iv) Mothers as advocates. Mothers felt that the rareness of their offspring's syndrome did not affect experiences with social care services, but did affect access to medical services and some aspects of day‐to‐day living. Accessing appropriate social care services was reported to be a lengthy and complex process. These data may help inform care service providers about how best to support adults with rare genetic syndromes and their families.
Peer Observed Interaction and Structured Evaluation (POISE): A Canadian Experience with Peer Supervision for Genetic Counselors
Authors: Goldsmith Claire , Honeywell Christina , Mettler Gabrielle
Published: January 2011

Peer observation, while often used in other professions, has not been formally applied in genetic counseling. The objective of this study was to pilot a method of peer evaluation whereby genetic counselors observed, and were observed by, each other during patient interaction. All of the available genetic counselors participated in both rounds of the pilot study (six in round one, seven in round two). The genetic counselors that observed the session used an observation room. Most participants reported learning a new skill. Sensitivity to, and comfort with, the feedback process improved. We conclude that Peer‐Observed Interaction and Structured Evaluation (POISE) provides an opportunity to refresh counseling approaches and develop feedback skills without causing undue team discord. This new approach to peer supervision in genetic counselling offers a live observation approach for genetic counsellor supervision.
Unterwegs in fremden Umgebungen Ein praxeologischer Zugang zum „wayfinding“ von Fußgängern
Authors: Kazig Rainer , Popp Monika
Published: January 2011

The process how people manage to find their way has been discussed in the Anglo-Saxon literature already since the 1980s using the term wayfinding. However, as wayfindingresearch is mainly rooted within environmental psychology, it basically focuses on information processing. Thus, wayfinding research does not systematically take into account the influence of distinct settings and therefore it is only of limited use for urban planning. In this article we introduce a praxiological approach which highlights the embodiment and sensuality of wayfinding allowing to put a special focus on the relevance of environmental settings for wayfinding practices. We then present a method (commented walks), which captures wayfinding in situ and by doing so follows the requirements of our approach. The potentials of the praxiological approach for urban planning is finally demonstrated using two case studies.
CT colonography: avoiding traps and pitfalls
Authors: Lefere Philippe , Gryspeerdt Stefaan
Published: January 2011

Computed tomographic colonography (CTC) is a reliable technique for detecting tumoral lesions in the colon. However, good performance of polyp detection is only achieved if experienced CTC radiologists combine meticulous interpretation with state-of-the-art CTC technique. To reach this experience level, CTC training is mandatory. With a considerably long and steep learning curve, it has been demonstrated that in inexperienced hands both technical failure and observer errors stand for the majority of missed lesions. The purpose of this pictorial review is to give an overview of traps and pitfalls in CTC imaging resulting in false negative and positive findings, and how to avoid them by application of state-of-the-art CTC technique and interpretation.
Science Is an Attitude: A Response to Kamhi
Authors: Apel Kenn
Published: January 2011

Purpose

I provide alternative views to Kamhi’s (2011) assertion that clinical practice cannot be scientific. I also discuss how the field of communication sciences and disorders might encourage scientific thinking about clinical practices in researchers and clinicians.

Method

Kamhi’s three main points for why clinical practice cannot be scientific are discussed, and alternate perspectives are offered.

Results

Clinicians and clinical practice can be scientific and can contribute to changes in scientific orthodoxy.

Conclusion

Science is an attitude that needs to be instilled in future researchers and clinicians during their educational programs. Model clinical scientists should be used as role models when educating these individuals.
Rational Thinking in School-Based Practice
Authors: Clark Mary Kristen , Flynn Perry
Published: January 2011

Purpose

We reflect on Alan Kamhi’s (2011) prologue on balancing certainty and uncertainty as it pertains to school-based practice.

Method

In schools, rational thinking depends on effective team processes, much like professional learning communities. We consider the conditions that are required for rational thinking and how rational team dialogue confronts uncertainties. We provide suggestions for how this dialogue can be used throughout the individualized education program (IEP) process to lead to more positive experiences for all team members as well as improved student outcomes.

Conclusion

Rational thinking in school-based practice may be manifest by closer adherence to the tenants of the Individuals With Disabilities Education Improvement Act of 2004 (IDEIA), ultimately resulting in increased rational thought and improved student outcomes.
Questions About Certainty and Uncertainty in Clinical Practice
Authors: Nelson Nickola Wolf
Published: January 2011

Purpose

This article offers a critical response to Kamhi’s (2011) essay regarding the need to balance certainty and uncertainty in evidence-based practice (EBP).

Method

Points of concordance and discordance (counterpoints) between Kamhi’s essay and the author’s frames of reference were considered.

Results

In agreement with Kamhi, a major role is outlined for clinicians to use questions strategically (i.e., acting on uncertainty) to prioritize intervention targets and select approaches that best fit the context and stakeholders' values for purposes of planning, accomplishing, and evaluating change. The first counterpoint emphasizes a need for larger roles for theoretical frameworks involving systems theory and collaborative, contextualized approaches to assessment and intervention. The second notes opportunities for self-correction by using outcome data from relevant contexts outside of treatment sessions.

Conclusion

Clinicians should capitalize on Kamhi’s ideas by working with other key stakeholders to make points of certainty and uncertainty explicit. By generating insightful questions that can guide the process of EBP and gathering evidence from broader outcomes, clinicians can gain external validation for the approach taken or for the need to consider alternatives.
Balancing Certainty and Uncertainty in Clinical Practice
Authors: Kamhi Alan G.
Published: January 2011

Purpose

In this epilogue, I respond to each of the five commentaries, discussing in some depth a central issue raised in each commentary. In the final section, I discuss how my thinking about certainty and uncertainty in clinical practice has evolved since I wrote the initial article.

Method

Topics addressed include the similarities/differences between science and clinical practice, how to teach rational and critical thinking, access to new ideas, evidence-based practice (EBP) and theory, the importance of knowledge for clinical practice, clinical expertise, and the feeling of certainty.

Conclusion

I was wrong about certainty and uncertainty. They are not the products of rational thought processes. Like many others, I have fallen prey to the myth of the autonomous rational mind. Burton (2008) and Marcus (2008) have convinced me that the certainty of our beliefs is influenced by feelings, emotions, desires, goals, and simple self-interest and is vulnerable to the idiosyncrasies of memory. This explains why highly rational thinkers will often reach different conclusions about the same set of observations (data). The only way to ensure scientific or clinical progress is to embrace a system that has a built-in mechanism for independent evaluation.
Assessing Speech Intelligibility in Children With Hearing Loss: Toward Revitalizing a Valuable Clinical Tool
Authors: Ertmer David J.
Published: January 2011

Background

Newborn hearing screening, early intervention programs, and advancements in cochlear implant and hearing aid technology have greatly increased opportunities for children with hearing loss to become intelligible talkers. Optimizing speech intelligibility requires that progress be monitored closely. Although direct assessment of intelligibility has been a cumbersome undertaking, advancements in digital recording technology and expanded strategies for recruiting listener-judges can make this tool much more practical in contemporary school and clinical settings.

Purpose

The main purposes of this tutorial are to present a rationale for assessing children’s connected speech intelligibility, review important uses for intelligibility scores, and describe time-efficient ways to estimate how well children’s connected speech can be understood. This information is offered to encourage routine assessment of connected speech intelligibility in preschool and school-age children with hearing loss.
Close Relationships in Adolescents With and Without a History of Specific Language Impairment
Authors: Wadman Ruth , Durkin Kevin , Conti-Ramsden Gina
Published: January 2011

Purpose

Engagement in close friendships and romantic relationships becomes particularly salient in adolescence. This study examined the influence of language, behavioral, and social variables on the level of emotional engagement experienced by adolescents with and without a history of specific language impairment (SLI).

Method

Ninety adolescents with SLI and 91 adolescents with typical language abilities (TD) completed two assessment sessions between the ages of 16 and 17.

Results

The group with SLI had significantly lower emotional engagement scores than the TD group. Some 24% of adolescents with a history of SLI were judged to have poor emotional engagement in close relationships, compared to only 2% of the TD adolescents. A regression analysis found that language ability, prosocial behavior, and shyness were concurrently predictive of level of emotional engagement in close relationships.

Conclusion

Some adolescents with SLI may be less emotionally engaged in their close relationships than their TD peers.
The Schrödinger Fock kernel and the no-go theorem for the first order and Renormalized Square of White Noise Lie algebras
Authors: Accardi Luigi , Boukas Andreas
Published: January 2011

Using the non-positive definiteness of the Fock kernel associated with the Schrödinger algebra we prove the impossibility of a joint Fock representation of the first order and Renormalized Square of White Noise Lie algebras with the convolution type renormalizationδ2(t−s)=δ(s)δ(t−s)\delta ^2(t-s)=\delta (s)\,\delta (t-s)for the square of the Dirac delta function. We show how the Schrödinger algebra Fock kernel can be reduced to a positive definite kernel through a restriction of the set of exponential vectors. We describe how the reduced Schrödinger kernel can be viewed as a tensor product of a Renormalized Square of White Noise (sl(2)sl(2)) and a First Order of White Noise (Heisenberg) Fock kernel. We also compute the characteristic function of a stochastic process naturally associated with the reduced Schrödinger kernel.
Undistorted solvable linear groups
Authors: Abels Herbert , Alperin Roger
Published: January 2011

We discuss distortion of solvable linear groups over a locally compact field and provide necessary and sufficient conditions for a subgroup to be undistorted when the field is of characteristic zero.
The Plant Growth–Promoting Rhizobacterium Bacillus cereus AR156 Induces Systemic Resistance in Arabidopsis thaliana by Simultaneously Activating Salicylate- and Jasmonate/Ethylene-Dependent Signaling Pathways
Authors: Niu Dong-Dong , Liu Hong-Xia , Jiang Chun-Hao , Wang Yun-Peng , Wang Qing-Ya , Jin Hai-Ling , Guo Jian-Hua
Published: January 2011

Bacillus cereus AR156 is a plant growth–promoting rhizobacterium that induces resistance against a broad spectrum of pathogens including Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato DC3000. This study analyzed AR156-induced systemic resistance (ISR) to DC3000 in Arabidopsis ecotype Col-0 plants. Compared with mock-treated plants, AR156-treated ones showed an increase in biomass and reductions in disease severity and pathogen density in the leaves. The defense-related genes PR1, PR2, PR5, and PDF1.2 were concurrently expressed in the leaves of AR156-treated plants, suggesting simultaneous activation of the salicylic acid (SA)- and the jasmonic acid (JA)- and ethylene (ET)-dependent signaling pathways by AR156. The above gene expression was faster and stronger in plants treated with AR156 and inoculated with DC3000 than that in plants only inoculated with DC3000. Moreover, the cellular defense responses hydrogen peroxide accumulation and callose deposition were induced upon challenge inoculation in the leaves of Col-0 plants primed by AR156. Also, pretreatment with AR156 led to a higher level of induced protection against DC3000 in Col-0 than that in the transgenic NahG, the mutant jar1 or etr1, but the protection was absent in the mutant npr1. Therefore, AR156 triggers ISR in Arabidopsis by simultaneously activating the SA- and JA/ET-signaling pathways in an NPR1-dependent manner that leads to an additive effect on the level of induced protection.
Analysis of Induction and Establishment of Dwarf Bunt of Wheat Under Marginal Climatic Conditions
Authors: Goates Blair J. , Peterson Gary L. , Bowden Robert L. , Maddux Larry D.
Published: January 2011

Dwarf bunt caused by Tilletia contraversa is a disease of winter wheat that has a limited geographic distribution due to specific winter climate requirements. The pathogen is listed as a quarantine organism by several countries that may have wheat production areas with inadequate or marginal climate for the disease—in particular the People's Republic of China. Field experiments were conducted in the United States in an area of Kansas that is a climatic analog to the northern winter wheat areas of China to evaluate the risk of disease introduction into such areas. The soil surface of four replicate 2.8 × 9.75 m plots, planted with a highly susceptible cultivar, was inoculated with six teliospore concentrations ranging from 0.88 to 88,400 teliospores/cm2. A single initial inoculation was done in each of three nurseries planted during separate seasons followed by examination for disease for 4 to 6 years afterward. Any diseased spikes produced were crushed and returned to the plots where they were produced. One nursery had no disease during all six seasons. In two nurseries, the disease was induced at trace levels at the three highest inoculation rates. Disease carryover to the second year occurred during one year in one nursery in plots at the highest inoculation rate, but no disease occurred the following three seasons. A duplicate nursery planted in a disease conducive area in Utah demonstrated that the highest rate of inoculum used in the experiments was sufficient to cause almost 100% infection. This study demonstrated that in an area with marginal climatic conditions it was possible to induce transient trace levels of dwarf bunt, but the disease was not established even with a highly susceptible cultivar and high levels of inoculum. Our results support the conclusions of the 1999 Agreement on U.S.-China Agricultural Cooperation which set a tolerance for teliospores in grain, and supports the Risk Assessment Model for Importation of United States Milling Wheat Containing T. contraversa.
Flexibility in reproductive timing in human females: integrating ultimate and proximate explanations
Authors: Nettle Daniel
Published: January 2011

From an ultimate perspective, the age of onset of female reproduction should be sensitive to variation in mortality rates, and variation in the productivity of non-reproductive activities. In accordance with this prediction, most of the cross-national variation in women's age at first birth can be explained by differences in female life expectancies and incomes. The within-country variation in England shows a similar pattern: women have children younger in neighbourhoods where the expectation of healthy life is shorter and incomes are lower. I consider the proximate mechanisms likely to be involved in producing locally appropriate reproductive decisions. There is evidence suggesting that developmental induction, social learning and contextual evocation may all play a role.
Modelling the evolution and diversity of cumulative culture
Authors: Enquist Magnus , Ghirlanda Stefano , Eriksson Kimmo
Published: January 2011

Previous work on mathematical models of cultural evolution has mainly focused on the diffusion of simple cultural elements. However, a characteristic feature of human cultural evolution is the seemingly limitless appearance of new and increasingly complex cultural elements. Here, we develop a general modelling framework to study such cumulative processes, in which we assume that the appearance and disappearance of cultural elements are stochastic events that depend on the current state of culture. Five scenarios are explored: evolution of independent cultural elements, stepwise modification of elements, differentiation or combination of elements and systems of cultural elements. As one application of our framework, we study the evolution of cultural diversity (in time as well as between groups).
Human nature, cultural diversity and evolutionary theory
Authors: Plotkin Henry
Published: January 2011

Incorporating culture into an expanded theory of evolution will provide the foundation for a universal account of human diversity. Two requirements must be met. The first is to see learning as an extension of the processes of evolution. The second is to understand that there are specific components of human culture, viz. higher order knowledge structures and social constructions, which give rise to culture as invented knowledge. These components, which are products of psychological processes and mechanisms, make human culture different from the forms of shared knowledge observed in other species. One serious difficulty for such an expanded theory is that social constructions may not add to the fitness of all humans exposed to them. This may be because human culture has existed for only a relatively short time in evolutionary terms. Or it may be that, as some maintain, adaptation is a limited, even a flawed, aspect of evolutionary theory.
Social learning and human mate preferences: a potential mechanism for generating and maintaining between-population diversity in attraction
Authors: Little Anthony C. , Jones Benedict C. , DeBruine Lisa M. , Caldwell Christine A.
Published: January 2011

Inspired by studies demonstrating mate-choice copying effects in non-human species, recent studies of attractiveness judgements suggest that social learning also influences human preferences. In the first part of our article, we review evidence for social learning effects on preferences in humans and other animals. In the second part, we present new empirical evidence that social learning not only influences the attractiveness of specific individuals, but can also generalize to judgements of previously unseen individuals possessing similar physical traits. The different conditions represent different populations and, once a preference arises in a population, social learning can lead to the spread of preferences within that population. In the final part of our article, we discuss the theoretical basis for, and possible impact of, biases in social learning whereby individuals may preferentially copy the choices of those with high status or better access to critical information about potential mates. Such biases could mean that the choices of a select few individuals carry the greatest weight, rapidly generating agreement in preferences within a population. Collectively, these issues suggest that social learning mechanisms encourage the spread of preferences for certain traits once they arise within a population and so may explain certain cross-cultural differences.