bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Endoscopic Management of Peri-Pancreatic Collections
Authors: Swartz David Keith , Obando Jorge
Published: February 2012

Endotherapy of peripancreatic fluid collections is an increasing utilized procedure in interventional endoscopy. The aim of this paper is to provide a general overview of the topic, highlighting the indications, technique, and important management issues relating to endoscopic management of the various forms of peri-pancreatic fluid collections.
Effect of Quercetin in the 1-Methyl-4-phenyl-1, 2, 3, 6-tetrahydropyridine-Induced Mouse Model of Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Lv Chuanfeng , Hong Tie , Yang Zhen , Zhang Yu , Wang Lu , Dong Man , Zhao Jing , Mu Jiaye , Meng Yixiao
Published: February 2012

In this paper, the protective effect of the bioflavonoid quercetin on behaviors, antioxidases, and neurotransmitters in 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1, 2, 3, 6-tetrahydropyridine-(MPTP-) induced Parkinson's disease (PD) was investigated. Quercetin treatment (50 mg/kg, 100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg body weight) was orally administered for 14 consecutive days. The results show that quercetin treatment markedly improves the motor balance and coordination of MPTP-treated mice. Significant increases were observed in the activities of glutathione peroxidase (GPx), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and Na+, K+-ATPase, AchE, the content of dopamine (DA) in the quercetin plus MPTP groups compared to those in the MPTP group. Significant reduction the 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal (4-HNE) immunoreactivity in striatum of brains was observed in the quercetin plus MPTP groups in comparison to the MPTP group. Taken together, we propose that quercetin has shown antiparkinsonian properties in our studies. More work is needed to explore detailed mechanisms of action.
N-Acetylcysteine Reverses Mitochondrial Dysfunctions and Behavioral Abnormalities in 3-Nitropropionic Acid-Induced Huntington’s Disease
Authors: Sandhir Rajat , Sood Aditi , Mehrotra Arpit , Kamboj Sukhdev S.
Published: February 2012

Mitochondrial dysfunction is a major event involved in the pathogenesis of Huntington’s disease (HD). The present study evaluates the role of N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) in preventing mitochondrial dysfunctions in a 3-nitropropionic acid (3-NP)-induced model of HD. Administration of 3-NP to rats (Wistar strain) resulted in significant inhibition of mitochondrial complexes II, IV and V in the striatum. However, no significant effect on complex I was observed. Increased generation of reactive oxygen species and lipid peroxidation was observed in mitochondria of 3-NP-treated animals. Endogenous antioxidants (thiols and manganese-superoxide dismutase) were lowered in mitochondria of 3-NP-treated animals. 3-NP-treated animals showed increased cytosolic cytochrome c levels and mitochondrial swelling. Increased expressions of caspase-3 and p53 were also observed in 3-NP-treated animals. Histopathological examination of the striata of 3-NP-treated animals revealed increased neural space, neurodegeneration and gliosis. This was accompanied by cognitive and motor deficits. NAC treatment, on the other hand, was found to be effective in reversing 3-NP-induced mitochondrial dysfunctions and neurobehavioral deficits. Our findings suggest a beneficial effect of NAC in HD.
Antiparkinsonian Mechanism of Electroconvulsive Therapy in MPTP-Lesioned Non-Human Primates
Authors: Landau Anne M. , Clark Campbell , Jivan Salma , Doudet Doris J.
Published: February 2012

Background: Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), an effective treatment for depression, also improves motor symptomatology in Parkinson’s disease (PD). We have previously demonstrated that ECT stimulates dopamine (DA) function in the striatum of healthy non-human primates, suggesting that DA may contribute to antidepressant effects. Objective: We investigated the potential role of DA mechanisms in the amelioration of PD symptoms following a clinical course of ECT. Methods: We treated non-human primates rendered mildly bilaterally or unilaterally parkinsonian with 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP), with a course of 6 ECT treatments. Using positron emission tomography, animals were scanned at baseline and at various time points after ECT with tracers of the DA system. Data were analyzed using the Logan reference tissue model and statistics were performed using orthogonal polynomial contrasts. Results: There was no change in binding of the DA transporter tracer in the lesioned striata after ECT as opposed to what we measured in the striatum of healthy animals. Raclopride binding to the D2/3 receptors was unaffected in all groups. However, there were increases in vesicular monoamine transporter type 2 and D1 receptor binding in the MPTP-lesioned striata after ECT, returning towards baseline by 6 weeks. Conclusion: We suggest that the effects of ECT in PD may proceed from a mechanism similar to that in healthy animals but with a blunted dopaminergic response, likely due to the significant loss of striatal DA terminals. The safety of ECT, its mild side effects and its stimulatory effects of the DA system may thus make it an attractive adjunct to antiparkinsonian treatment.
Outcomes of Children with Hashitoxicosis
Authors: Wasniewska Malgorzata , Corrias Andrea , Salerno Mariacarolina , Lombardo Fortunato , Aversa Tommaso , Mussa Alessandro , Capalbo Donatella , De Luca Filippo , Valenzise Mariella
Published: February 2012

Aim: To investigate hashitoxicosis outcome in 14 children with persistent absence of thyrotropin receptor autoantibodies who were followed for 1.3-8.8 years (mean 3.5 ± 2.5). Due to a more severe presentation, 4 patients required methimazole (subgroup A1), whilst in the remaining 10 cas es (subgroup A2) no treatment was given. Results: A definitive resolution of hyperthyroidism was recorded 8.3 ± 6.3 months after diagnosis, even though there was a wide variability between subjects (3-23 months). In subgroup A2, hyperthyroidism resolution occurred spontaneously and earlier with respect to subgroup A1 (4.8 ± 2.0 months after diagnosis vs. 17.0 ± 4.5, p = 0.00001). After hyperthyroidism resolution, no relapses were recorded in any patients. Hyperthyroidism duration positively correlated with thyroid peroxidase autoantibody (TPOAb) levels at presentation (r = 0.729, p = 0.002). Conclusions: In all the 14 hashitoxicosis children with persistently absent thyrotropin receptor autoantibodies, the hyperthyroid phase was widely variable and always followed by definitive resolution with no relapses and persistent euthyroidism or hypothyroidism. In the few patients with a more severe presentation, methimazole treatment was required, and definitive hyperthyroidism resolution was delayed. In this subgroup, TPOAb levels at diagnosis were higher than in the subgroup with less severe presentation and earlier hyperthyroidism resolution, suggesting a relationship between TPOAb levels and severity of the disease.
Triple A Syndrome in a Patient with Genetic Growth Hormone Insensitivity: Phenotypic Effects of Two Genetic Disorders
Authors: Marín Silvia , Casano-Sancho Paula , Villarreal-Peña Nancy , Sebastiani Giorgia , Pinillos Sergio , Pérez-Dueñas Belén , Hwa Vivian , Rosenfeld Ron G. , Ibáñez Lourdes
Published: February 2012

Background: Primary growth hormone insensitivity (GHI) and triple A syndrome are rare autosomal recessive disorders. Case Report: The patient, a 12-year-old boy from consanguineous parents, was referred for short stature at the age of 7 years (height: -5.4 SD score). He had low serum insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I) and IGF binding protein 3 and a blunted IGF-I response to recombinant human GH; molecular analysis of the GH receptor disclosed a homozygous A-1→G-1 at the 5′ pseudoexon 6Ψ splice site. Recombinant IGF-I therapy (mecasermin, Increlex®, twice daily) initiated at the age of 9 years resulted in an increase of height velocity (HV) from 4.0 to 9.5 cm/year. At the age of 10.5 years, he presented with asthenia, anorexia, weight loss, a decrease in HV and very low cortisol levels; adrenal insufficiency was confirmed and glucocorticoid therapy was initiated. Subsequent peripheral motor neuropathy, achalasia and alacrima raised the suspicion of triple A syndrome, which was confirmed by the presence of a homozygous R194X mutation in the AAAS gene. Conclusion: This unusual combination of diseases, to our knowledge, has not been reported to date. Although the patient responded to recombinant IGF-I therapy for GHI, we hypothesize that the treatment could have had an inhibitory effect on 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 activity, thereby reducing the availability of cortisol and precipitating adrenal insufficiency.
Neurogenic and Myogenic Contributions to Hereditary Motor Neuron Disease
Authors: Bricceno Katherine V. , Fischbeck Kenneth H. , Burnett Barrington G.
Published: February 2012

Spinal muscular atrophy and spinal and bulbar muscular atrophy are characterized by lower motor neuron loss and muscle atrophy. Although it is accepted that motor neuron loss is a primary event in disease pathogenesis, inherent defects in muscle may also contribute to the disease progression and severity. In this review, we discuss the relative contributions of primary pathological processes in the motor axons, neuromuscular junctions and muscle to disease manifestations. Characterizing these contributions helps us to better understand the disease mechanisms and to better target therapeutic intervention.
Mapping Sites on Bone and Soft Tissue of the Head, Neck and Thorax at Which a Bone Vibrator Elicits Auditory Sensation
Authors: Kaufmann Michal , Adelman Cahtia , Sohmer Haim
Published: February 2012

This study was designed to map the sites on the skin of the head, neck and thorax at which a clinical bone vibrator elicits auditory sensation. In 10 subjects with normal hearing, a bone vibrator delivering a 2000-Hz warble tone, at an intensity which was at least 5 dB below the intensity which elicited a sensation by air conduction over each site, was applied to 25 sites with an application force of 500 g. Auditory sensations were elicited at many soft tissue (underlying bone >1 cm below the skin) and osseous (bone <0.5 cm below the skin) sites on the head, neck and thorax in all subjects, down to the sternum and thoracic vertebrae. Therefore, auditory vibrations induced at many sites on the head, neck and thorax can reach the cochlea and elicit auditory sensation.
Reduced bone mineral density in patients with haemophilia A and B in Northern Greece
Authors: Vakalopoulou Sofia , Slavakis Aristidis , Charizopoulou Maria , Kazantzidou Eirini , Chrysopoulou Tania , Vyzantiadis Timoleon-Achilleas , Moka Eleni , Agapidou Alexandra , Garipidou Vassilia , Anagnostis Panagiotis
Published: February 2012

Haemophilia A and B has been associated with increased prevalence of low bone mass (67–86%). The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of bone disease in haemophiliacs and its association with potential risk factors. Adult patients with haemophilia A and B followed-up in the Haemophilia Centre of Northern Greece were included. Bone mineral density (BMD) was measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) in lumbar spine (LS), femoral neck (FN), total hip (TH) and great trochanter (GT). One-hundred four male patients (aged 45.8 ± 15.1 years) and 50 controls (aged 44.9 ± 12.8 years) were screened. Low BMD was diagnosed in 28 patients (26.9%) and 10 controls (20%) (p=0.0001). Patients had lower BMD in TH (p=0.007), FN (p=0.029) and GT (p=0.008) than controls, without differences in LS. BMD was positively associated with the severity of haemophilia, history of herpes virus C or human immunodeficiency virus and level of physical activity, and negatively with the level of arthropathy. In multiple-regression analysis, only the level of physical activity and 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] significantly predicted BMD. Half of the patients had vitamin D deficiency. In conclusion, our study showed increased prevalence of low BMD in haemophiliacs. The levels of physical activity and 25(OH)D independently predicted low BMD.
Prediction of thrombus resolution after intravenous thrombolysis assessed by CT-based thrombus imaging
Authors: Nam Hyo , Kim Eung , Kim Seo , Kim Young , Kim Jinkwon , Lee Hye , Nam Chung , Heo Ji
Published: February 2012

The degree of thrombus resolution directly indicates the effectiveness of a thrombolytic drug. We investigated the degree of thrombus resolution and factors associated with thrombus resolution after intravenous (IV) recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rt-PA) using thin-section noncontrast computed tomography (NCT). Thin-section NCTs were performed before and immediately after IV rt-PA infusion in acute stroke patients. The thrombus volume and Hounsfield unit were measured using three-dimensional imaging software. Immediate recanalisation was assessed immediately after IV rt-PA infusion using CT angiography. During a three-year study period, 130 patients were prospectively enrolled. On baseline thin-section NCT, no thrombi were found in 30 patients (23%). Among the 100 patients with confirmed thrombus, the median volume decreased by 20% on the follow-up NCT. The thrombus was completely resolved in 8%. Of note, an increase in thrombus volume was observed in 20 patients. Independent predictors of thrombus resolution were total rt-PA dose, thrombus location in the M2 segment of the middle cerebral artery, and time from baseline to follow-up NCT. Thrombus resolution increased by 9% per each 10-mg increase in rt-PA (p = 0.045). Immediate complete recanalisation was achieved in 12% of patients. Total dose of rt-PA was independently associated with complete recanalisation [odds ratio [OR] 4.52, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.345–15.184) and good functional outcome at three months (modified Rankin scale score <3, OR 2.34, 95% CI 1.104–4.962). In conclusion, rt-PA dose was associated with the degree of thrombus resolution, immediate complete recanalisation, and good outcome at three months. CT-based thrombus imaging may be helpful in determining thrombolysis effectiveness.
Herpesviruses enhance fibrin clot lysis
Authors: Gershom Edwin S. , Vanden Hoek Amanda L. , Meixner Scott C. , Sutherland Michael R. , Pryzdial Edward L.G.
Published: February 2012

The incorporation of virus- and host-derived procoagulant factors initiates clotting directly on the surface of herpesviruses, which is an explanation for their correlation to vascular disease. The virus exploits the resulting thrombin to enhance infection by modulating the host cell through protease activated receptor (PAR) 1 signalling. Prior reports demonstrated that at least one herpesvirus expresses surface annexin A2 (A2), a cofactor for tissue plasminogen activator (tPA)-dependent activation of plasminogen to plasmin. Since plasmin is both a fibrinolytic protease and PAR agonist, we investigated whether herpesviruses enhance fibrinolysis and the effect of plasmin on cell infection. Herpes simplex virus types 1 (HSV1) and 2, and cytomegalovirus (CMV) purified from various cell lines each accelerated the proteolytic activation of plasminogen to plasmin by tPA. Ligand blots identified A2 as one of several plasminogen binding partners associated with the virus when compared to an A2-deficient virus. This was confirmed with inhibitory A2-antibodies. However, A2 was not required for virus-enhanced plasmin generation. HSV1, HSV2 and CMV accelerated tPA-dependent fibrin clot lysis by up to 2.8-fold. Modest plasmin generation and fibrinolysis was detected independent of exogenous tPA, which was inhibited by plasminogen activator inhibitor type-1 and ε-aminocaproic acid; however, the molecular basis remains speculative. Up to a ∼6-fold enhancement of infection was provided by plasmin-mediated cell infection. Inhibitory antibodies revealed that plasmin increased HSV1 infection through a mechanism involving PAR2. Thus, virus-enhanced fibrinolysis may help explain the paradox of the highly procoagulant in vitro herpesvirus surface eliciting only relatively weak independent vascular disease risk.
MicroRNAs in the regulation of immune cell functions – implications for atherosclerotic vascular disease
Authors: Zernecke Alma
Published: February 2012

Regarded as a chronic inflammatory disease of the vessel wall, the development of atherosclerotic lesions is shaped by immune responses and their regulation. Macrophages and dendritic cells are positioned at the crossroad of innate and adaptive immune responses by sensing atherogenic danger signals and by taking up and presenting antigens. T helper cells and auto-antibodies produced by B cells, together with their cytokine responses in turn modulate atheroprogression. In addition, platelets contribute to atherosclerosis by multiple pathways. microRNAs (miRNAs) that post-transcriptionally regulate gene expression may thus critically control immune cell differentiation and functions during plaque evolution. This review summarises the role of miRNAs in regulating lipid uptake and expression of inflammatory mediators in monocytes/macrophages and dendritic cells, in lymphocyte functions with a focus on T helper cell responses, as well as in platelet biology, and the implications of altering these functions in vascular pathology and atherosclerosis. T systematically survey miRNA functions in controlling molecular mechanisms and immune responses in atherosclerosis holds potential for the development of novel miRNA-based strategies for therapies targeting inflammation and immunity in atherosclerosis.
Factors associated with failure to correct the international normalised ratio following fresh frozen plasma administration among patients treated for warfarin-related major bleeding
Authors: White Leigh , Friedman Mark , Nichols Christine , Menzin Jordan , Hoesche Jan , Bergman Garrett E. , Jones Christopher , Menzin Joseph
Published: February 2012

This study assessed the frequency and factors associated with failure to correct international normalised ratio (INR) in patients administered fresh frozen plasma (FFP) for warfarin-related major bleeding. This retrospective database analysis used electronic health records from an integrated health system. Patients who received FFP between 01/01/2004 and 01/31/2010, and who met the following criteria were selected: major haemorrhage diagnosis the day before to the day after initial FFP administration; INR ≥2 on the day before or the day of FFP and another INR result available; warfarin prescription within 90 days. INR correction (defined as INR ≤1.3) was evaluated at the last available test up to one day following FFP. A total of 414 patients met selection criteria (mean age 75 years, 53% male, mean Charlson score 2.5). Patients presented with gastrointestinal bleeding (58%), intracranial haemorrhage (38%) and other bleed types (4%). The INR of 67% of patients remained uncorrected at the last available test up to one day following receipt of FFP. In logistic regression analysis, the INR of patients who were older, those with a Charlson score of 4 or greater, and those with non-ICH bleeds (odds ratio vs. intracranial bleeding 0.48; 95% confidence interval 0.31–0.76) were more likely to remain uncorrected within one day following FFP administration. In an alternative definition of correction, (INR ≤1.5), 39% of patients’ INRs remained uncorrected. For a substantial proportion of patients, the INRs remain inadequately or uncorrected following FFP administration, with estimates varying depending on the INR threshold used.
Is EPCR a multi-ligand receptor? Pros and cons
Authors: Molina Eva , Hermida José , Montes Ramón , Puy Cristina
Published: February 2012

In the last decade, the endothelial cell protein C/activated protein C receptor (EPCR) has received considerable attention. The role initially attributed to EPCR, i.e. the enhancement of protein C (PC) activation by the thrombin-thrombomodulin complex on the surface of the large vessels, although important, did not go beyond the haemostasis scenario. However, the discovery of the cytoprotective, anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic features of the activated PC (APC) and the required involvement of EPCR for APC to exert such actions did place the receptor in a privileged position in the crosstalk between coagulation and inflammation. The last five years have shown that PC/APC are not the only molecules able to interact with EPCR. Factor VII/VIIa (FVII/VIIa) and factor Xa (FXa), two other serine proteases that play a central role in haemostasis and are also involved in signalling processes influencing wound healing, tissue remodelling, inflammation or metastasis, have been reported to bind to EPCR. These observations have paved the way for an exploration of unsuspected new roles for the receptor. This review aims to offer a new image of EPCR in the light of its extended panel of ligands. A brief update of what is known about the APC-evoked EPCR-dependent cell signalling mechanisms is provided, but special care has been taken to assemble all the information available about the interaction of EPCR with FVII/VIIa and FXa.
Reliable Identification of “Truly Low” Thromboembolic Risk in Patients Initially Diagnosed With “Lone” Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Potpara Tatjana S. , Polovina Marija M. , Licina Marina M. , Marinkovic Jelena M. , Prostran Milica S. , Lip Gregory Y.H.
Published: February 2012

Background—

The CHA
2
DS
2
-VASc (Congestive heart failure, Hypertension, Age ≥75 years, Diabetes mellitus, previous Stroke/transient ischemic attack [TIA], Vascular disease, Age 65–74 years, and Sex category [female gender]) schema recently has been introduced to complement the CHADS
2
(Congestive heart failure, Hypertension, Age >75 years, Diabetes mellitus, and previous stroke or TIA) score and improve the identification of atrial fibrillation (AF) patients at “truly low risk” for thromboembolism. We tested the predictive ability of the CHA
2
DS
2
-VASc, CHADS
2
, and van Walraven risk stratification schemes in a cohort of “lone” AF patients with a 12-year follow-up.

Methods and Results—

We conducted a registry-based, observational cohort study of 345 patients initially diagnosed with “lone” AF between 1992 and 2007. At baseline, all patients had the CHADS
2
and van Walraven scores of 0, and 262 (75.9%) had a CHA
2
DS
2
-VASc score of 0. During follow-up (or within a year prior to stroke), 228 (66.1%), 234 (67.8%), and 150 patients (43.5%) retained the CHADS
2
, van Walraven, and CHA
2
DS
2
-VASc scores of 0, respectively. The overall rate of ischemic stroke was 0.19 (95% CI: 0.18–0.20) per 100 patient years. In the multivariable analysis, only the CHA
2
DS
2
-VASc score of 0 was significantly related to
the absence
of stroke (odds ratio 5.1, 95% CI: 1.5–16.8,
P
=0.008). Only the CHA
2
DS
2
-VASc score had a significant prediction ability (c-statistic 0.72 [0.61–0.84],
P
=0.031).

Conclusions—

The CHA
2
DS
2
-VASc score reliably identified the “lone” AF patients who were at “truly low risk” for thromboembolism, and was the only tested risk stratification scheme with a significant predictive ability for thromboembolism among lone AF patients.
Introduction: Longitudinal Analysis of Historical-Demographic Data
Authors: Alter George C. , Gutmann Myron P. , Leonard Susan Hautaniemi , Merchant Emily R.
Published: February 2012

Understanding the complexity of the historical demographic transition—the secular change from high to low levels of mortality and fertility in Western Europe and the United States during the nineteenth and twentieth centuries—has long been a major goal of historical demography. Recent developments in individual-level life-course databases and longitudinal statistical models have allowed scholars to test ever-more complex hypotheses about the causal factors in demographic change and to develop an increasingly fine-grained image of demographic behavior before, during, and after the transition. Such studies are critical for identifying variation, both between and within societies, obscured by secular trends that appear uniform at the macro-level, and for distinguishing the contingent elements of demographic change from the universal elements. The six articles presented in this special issue bring new substantive and methodological insights to the field of historical demography—revealing the responsiveness of pre-transition fertility to changing contexts, tracking the transmission of new fertility practices, exploring the unevenness of mortality and fertility decline, and documenting the changing role of social institutions in family formation.
Releasing Mother's Burdens: Child Abandonment and Retrieval in Madrid, 1890–1935
Authors: Eugercios Bárbara A. Revuelta
Published: February 2012

In nineteenth-century Europe, the foundling hospital grew beyond its traditional purpose of mitigating the shame of unwed mothers by also permitting widows, widowers, and poor married couples to abandon their children there temporarily. In the Foundling Hospital of Madrid (fhm), this new short-term abandonment could be completely anonymous due to the implementation of a wheel—a device on the outside wall of the institution that could be turned to place a child inside—which remained open until 1929. The use of survival-analysis techniques to disentangle the determinants of retrieval in a discrete framework reveals important differences in the situations of the women who abandoned their children at the fhm, partly depending on whether they accessed it through the Maternity Hospital after giving birth or they accessed it directly. The evidence suggests that those who abandoned their children through the Maternity Hospital retrieved them only when they had attained a certain degree of economic stability, whereas those who abandoned otherwise did so just as soon as the immediate condition prompting the abandonment had improved.
Complexity as Practice: A Reflection on the Creative Outcomes of a Sustained Engagement with Complexity
Authors: Davis Tom
Published: February 2012

This article presents a reflection on a body of creative work carried out during four years of Ph.D. research that explored the relationship between complexity theory and music. The article highlights conceptual problems that arose during the creation of the work, especially those associated with the exploration of scientific models for the creation of art. The author does not attempt to offer any final solutions but rather presents the journey undertaken through the combined artistic and research practice as a way of documenting the strategies he developed during this period of creative practice.
The Seeing Machine Camera: An Artistic Tool for the Visually Challenged Conceived by a Visually Challenged Artist
Authors: Wu Faye , Selvadurai Chindhuri , Smithwick Quinn , Cain James , Cavallerano Jerry , Silver Phil , Goldring Elizabeth
Published: February 2012

The Vision Group at the Center for Advanced Visual Studies (CAVS) at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) has developed the Seeing Machine Camera (SMC) under the direction of Elizabeth Goldring, a visually challenged artist. The SMC is an innovative tool that enables artistic expression for those with decreased vision. The camera enhances the ability to see the face of a loved one, look at a painting in a museum, photograph landscapes or create digital artwork. For visually challenged artists who may feel isolated from their visual world, the SMC provides an opportunity to connect to the people around them, enjoy a greater sense of independence and expand their creativity.
Impact of the Dual-Polarization Doppler Radar Data on Two Convective Storms with a Warm-Rain Radar Forward Operator
Authors: Li Xuanli , Mecikalski John R.
Published: February 2012

The dual-polarization (dual pol) Doppler radar can transmit/receive both horizontally and vertically polarized power returns. The dual-pol radar measurements have been shown to provide a more accurate precipitation estimate compared to traditional radars. In this study, the horizontal reflectivity ZH, differential reflectivity ZDR, specific differential phase KDP, and radial velocity VR collected by the C-band Advanced Radar for Meteorological and Operational Research (ARMOR) are assimilated for two convective storms. A warm-rain scheme is constructed to assimilate ZH, ZDR, and KDP data using the three-dimensional variational data assimilation (3DVAR) system with the Advanced Research Weather Research and Forecasting Model (ARW-WRF). The main goals of this study are first to demonstrate and compare the impact of various dual-pol variables in initialization of real case convective storms and second to test how the dual-pol fields may be better used with a 3DVAR system.

The results show that the ZH, ZDR, KDP, and VR data substantially improve the initial condition for two mesoscale convective storms. Significant positive impacts on short-term forecast are obtained for both storms. Additionally, KDP and ZDR data assimilation is shown to be superior to ZH and ZDR and ZH-only data assimilation when the warm-rain microphysics is adopted. With the ongoing upgrade of the current Weather Surveillance Radar-1988 Doppler (WSR-88D) network to include dual-pol capabilities (started in early 2011), the findings from this study can be a helpful reference for utilizing the dual-pol radar data in numerical simulations of severe weather and related quantitative precipitation forecasts.
The Diurnal Cycle of Precipitation from Continental Radar Mosaics and Numerical Weather Prediction Models. Part II: Intercomparison among Numerical Models and with Nowcasting
Authors: Berenguer Marc , Surcel Madalina , Zawadzki Isztar , Xue Ming , Kong Fanyou
Published: February 2012

This second part of a two-paper series compares deterministic precipitation forecasts from the Storm-Scale Ensemble Forecast System (4-km grid) run during the 2008 NOAA Hazardous Weather Testbed (HWT) Spring Experiment, and from the Canadian Global Environmental Multiscale (GEM) model (15 km), in terms of their ability to reproduce the average diurnal cycle of precipitation during spring 2008. Moreover, radar-based nowcasts generated with the McGill Algorithm for Precipitation Nowcasting Using Semi-Lagrangian Extrapolation (MAPLE) are analyzed to quantify the portion of the diurnal cycle explained by the motion of precipitation systems, and to evaluate the potential of the NWP models for very short-term forecasting.

The observed diurnal cycle of precipitation during spring 2008 is characterized by the dominance of the 24-h harmonic, which shifts with longitude, consistent with precipitation traveling across the continent. Time–longitude diagrams show that the analyzed NWP models partially reproduce this signal, but show more variability in the timing of initiation in the zonal motion of the precipitation systems than observed from radar.

Traditional skill scores show that the radar data assimilation is the main reason for differences in model performance, while the analyzed models that do not assimilate radar observations have very similar skill.

The analysis of MAPLE forecasts confirms that the motion of precipitation systems is responsible for the dominance of the 24-h harmonic in the longitudinal range 103°–85°W, where 8-h MAPLE forecasts initialized at 0100, 0900, and 1700 UTC successfully reproduce the eastward motion of rainfall systems. Also, on average, MAPLE outperforms radar data assimilating models for the 3–4 h after initialization, and nonradar data assimilating models for up to 5 h after initialization.
Effect of Boot Weight and Sole Flexibility on Gait and Physiological Responses of Firefighters in Stepping Over Obstacles
Authors: Chiou Sharon S. , Turner Nina , Zwiener Joyce , Weaver Darlene L. , Haskell William E.
Published: February 2012

Objective: The authors investigated the effect of boot weight and sole flexibility on spatiotemporal gait characteristics and physiological responses of firefighters in negotiating obstacles.

Background: Falls and overexertion are the leading causes of fire ground injuries and fatalities among firefighters. There have been few in-depth studies conducted to evaluate the risk factors of falls and overexertion associated with firefighter boots.

Method: For the study, 13 female and 14 male firefighters, while wearing full turnout clothing and randomly assigned boots, walked for 5 min while stepping over obstacles. The independent variables included boot weight, sole flexibility, gender, and task duration. Spatiotemporal measures of foot trajectories and toe clearance were determined. Minute ventilation, oxygen consumption, carbon dioxide production, and heart rate were measured.

Results: Increased boot weight was found to significantly reduce trailing toe clearance when crossing the 30-cm obstacle. Significant increases in lateral displacement of the foot were found near the end of the 5-min walk compared with the beginning of the task. Increased boot weight significantly increased oxygen consumption. There were significant decreases in oxygen consumption for more flexible soles.

Conclusion: Firefighters were more likely to trip over obstacles when wearing heavier boots and after walking for a period of time. Boot weight affected metabolic variables (5% to 11% increases per 1-kg increase in boot weight), which were mitigated by sole flexibility (5% to 7% decrease for more flexible soles).

Application: This study provides useful information for firefighters and boot manufacturers in boot selection and design for reducing falls and overexertion.
Seeing the forest and the trees: A complex adaptive systems lens for mentoring
Authors: Jones Rachel , Corner James
Published: February 2012

We offer a complex adaptive systems (CAS) lens as a potentially fruitful cross-disciplinary perspective for mentoring. Understanding mentoring relationships as CAS will invigorate the field and assist it to be responsive and relevant given our increasingly complex and turbulent environment. We begin by exploring the key properties of CAS. We then review the current mentoring literature’s connection to the systems and complexity theories that underpin CAS, demonstrating CAS’s relevance. We further examine four specific benefits that such a lens could bring, including attention to process, the reconceptualization of context, the adoption of new methodologies, and the fostering of interdisciplinary conversation. Research questions the CAS lens might stimulate for mentoring are then considered and difficulties with the CAS approach explored. We conclude by suggesting how CAS-informed research might shape mentoring knowledge and practice.
Correlation of density and properties of particleboard from coffee waste with urea–formaldehyde and polymeric methylene diphenyl diisocyanates
Authors: Rachtanapun Pornchai , Sattayarak Teerarat , Ketsamak Nisachon
Published: February 2012

The effect of urea–formaldehyde adhesive and polymeric methylene diphenyl diisocyanates adhesive on the manufacture of particleboard using coffee waste as a raw material was investigated. The coffee waste was blended with the urea–formaldehyde or polymeric methylene diphenyl diisocyanates, then hot-pressed at 140°C at two pressure levels. The particleboards were tested to certify their density, moisture content, thickness swelling, water absorption, bending strength and modulus of elasticity. The density, moisture content and bending strength of the sample increased, but thickness swelling and water absorption decreased with increasing quantity of the urea–formaldehyde and polymeric methylene diphenyl diisocyanates. The particleboard with urea–formaldehyde and polymeric methylene diphenyl diisocyanates at the same quantity, the density, moisture content, thickness swelling, water absorption, bending strength and modulus of elasticity of polymeric methylene diphenyl diisocyanates were better than urea–formaldehyde adhesive. At the same adhesive content, the urea–formaldehyde adhesive samples above 18% urea–formaldehyde content and all of the samples with PMDI adhesive met the Thai industrial standards.
Criteria for the use of modular networks: fatigue in composite materials
Authors: de Sena Bremmer Bernardo Vasconcelos , Júnior Raimundo Carlos Silverio Freire
Published: February 2012

This study examines the influence of dataset choice on neural network training, comparing the dataset using the S–N curves most commonly obtained in the literature ( R = 10, −1, and 0.1) with two others that exchange alternate S–N curve ( R = −1) data for another S–N curve, which can be chosen either within the variable load region with predominance of tension or the variable load region with predominance of compression. In addition, the present investigation defines a stopping criterion for modular network training. A total of 10 datasets drawn from the literature were analyzed to achieve the desired results.
Differential profiles of risk of self-harm among clinically referred primary school aged children
Authors: Angelkovska Anne , Houghton Stephen , Hopkins Sarah
Published: February 2012

Risk of self-harm among clinic referred children aged 6- to 12-years-old was investigated using the recently developed Self-Harm Risk Assessment for Children (SHRAC) instrument which comprises six factors: Affect traits; verbalizing of self-harm; socialization; dissociation; self-directing; and self-appraisal. The SHRAC was completed by the mothers of 125 primary school aged children referred to a University based clinic for psychological assessment. These children were subsequently assigned to one of four groups (non clinical, externalizers, internalizers, and combined internalizers/externalizers). Multivariate analysis of variance with univariate F and Scheffé follow-ups revealed differences in risk of self-harm between the four groups. Overall, individuals with both internalizing (anxiety/withdrawn, anxiety/depressed and somatic complaints) and externalizing (rule-breaking behavior and aggressive behavior) characteristics were more at risk of self-harm. These individuals scored highest across each of the six domains. The findings demonstrate the SHRAC to be a reliable instrument for educational psychologists to use with children they suspect of being at risk of self-harm.
Using computer-assisted interviewing to consult with children with autism spectrum disorders: An exploratory study
Authors: Barrow Wilma , Hannah Elizabeth F.
Published: February 2012

This article explores the use of computer-assisted interviewing (CAI) as a tool for consulting with children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). This is considered within the context of a research study which utilized one CAI programme, In My Shoes, to investigate children and young people's views of provision, support, and participation in meetings and involvement in decision making. Based on a process of reflection through dialogue, the authors report on the perceived value of this methodology compared with traditional semi-structured interviewing. The researchers conclude that this approach offers potential in interviewing children with ASD. Implications for practitioners and avenues for future research are considered.
Birth characteristics and developmental outcomes of infants of Mexican-origin adolescent mothers
Authors: Jahromi Laudan B. , Umaña-Taylor Adriana J. , Updegraff Kimberly A. , Lara Ethelyn E.
Published: February 2012

Infants of adolescent mothers are at increased risk for negative developmental outcomes. Given the high rate of pregnancy among Mexican-origin adolescent females in the US, the present study examined health characteristics at birth and developmental functioning at 10 months of age in a sample of 205 infants of Mexican-origin adolescent mothers. Infants were relatively healthy at birth and had near average developmental functioning at 10 months. The educational attainment of adolescents and their mothers, and infants’ temperamental regulation, promoted positive developmental functioning, while the combination of low adolescent parental self-efficacy and high infant temperamental negativity was associated with greater developmental delay. Findings are discussed with respect to implications for prevention with this at-risk population of mothers and infants.
‘To be heard’: The social and mental health benefits of choir singing for disadvantaged adults
Authors: Dingle Genevieve A. , Brander Christopher , Ballantyne Julie , Baker Felicity A.
Published: February 2012

Compared with other members of the general population, adults living with a chronic mental illness or disability tend to participate less frequently in occupational and social interactions. This may exacerbate problems such as emotional flattening and social isolation. Supported activities like choir singing present an opportunity for meaningful activity and social connectedness for these individuals. The aim of this study was to explore the personal experiences of choir members (89% of whom experienced chronic mental health problems, 28% physical disabilities and 11% intellectual disability) in relation to their wellbeing using interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA). Semi-structured interviews were carried out with 21 members of the choir at three time points in the choir’s inaugural year: at the inception of the choir, after six months, and after 12 months. Three content themes emerged: (1) personal impact (positive emotions, emotional regulation, spiritual experience, self-perception, finding a voice); (2) social impact (connectedness within the choir, connection with audience, social functioning); and (3) functional outcomes (health benefits, employment capacity, and routine). A fourth theme of time was also apparent in the data. Results of this study were consistent with the social identity theory notion that forming a new and valued group identity (as a choir member) was associated with emotional and health benefits for the participants.
Introduction
Authors: Gall Gregor , Darlington Ralph
Published: February 2012

This introduction provides a rationale for the special issue on the contribution of Richard Hyman to the study of industrial relations.
Beyond ‘political economism’: New identities for unions in Western Europe?
Authors: Taylor Graham , Mathers Andrew , Upchurch Martin
Published: February 2012

This article engages critically with Richard Hyman’s work on union identity and European integration. It includes a sympathetic review of Hyman’s contribution to the debate on these topics over the past two decades, alongside a critique of Hyman’s approach that highlights certain weaknesses and contradictions resulting from his uncritical use of a range of categories and concepts taken from regulation theory. The authors question Hyman’s argument that developments in European unionism can be conceptualised adequately through an analysis of the development and crisis of ‘political economism’: a dominant union identity that Hyman aligns with the development and crisis of Fordism. An alternative model for understanding the reorientation of European unions is presented based on a critical and dialectical conceptualisation of the relationship between unions and capitalist development. This is used to construct a model of contemporary union reorientation along the dimensions of ‘accommodation’ and ‘opposition’ to neoliberalism and to ‘national’ and ‘international’ modes of organisation and mobilisation.
A reappraisal of the rank-and-file versus bureaucracy debate
Authors: Darlington Ralph , Upchurch Martin
Published: February 2012

This paper celebrates some of the considerable strengths of Hyman’s 1970s/early 1980s analysis of unions in general and bureaucracy specifically, and reapplies it to more recent developments within British unions, while at the same time providing a critique of Hyman’s refutation of the ‘rank-and-file’ versus ‘union bureaucracy’ conception of intra-union relations. It argues that the wider set of implications Hyman drew from the accentuated pressures towards the bureaucratisation of workplace unionism that he identified ‘bent the stick’ too far in the opposite direction. In attempting to defend and refine the classical revolutionary Marxist analytical framework, the paper maintains that the conflict of interest that exists between full-time officials and rank-and-file members is a meaningful generalisation of a real contradiction within trade unionism, notwithstanding the variations and complexities involved. It examines the nature and social dynamics of full-time union officialdom, shop stewards and workplace unionism, and the relationship between the two. In the process, the limits and potential of both Hyman’s ‘earlier’ and ‘later’ writings are highlighted and some broader generalisations are drawn with relevance to current dilemmas for trade unionism.
Imagined solidarities: Where is class in union organising?
Authors: Simms Melanie
Published: February 2012

This paper argues that the ‘turn to organising’ in British unions over the past decade has largely ignored the broader questions of the purpose of such activity. As a consequence, unions have mainly focused on building solidarities between workers in their individual workplaces rather than developing a wider view of workers’ interests and the objectives of that solidarity. Using Hyman’s typology of union identities ( 2001 ), it is evident that ‘class’ identity has largely been sidelined in debates about union renewal in Britain. The paper argues that this limits the scope of union renewal both in practice and in theory.
Union renewal in France and Hyman’s universal dualism
Authors: Connolly Heather
Published: February 2012

This paper draws upon the work of Richard Hyman to examine the question of union renewal in France. Developing a discussion around union renewal is particularly significant in the context of France, since studies on French unions since the mid-1980s have centred on the movement’s ‘decline’ and ‘crisis’, and France has rarely been included in comparative studies on union renewal and revitalisation. The paper uses empirical data collected from 2003-2010 to present a case study of SUD-Rail, a breakaway union formed in the French public railway sector in 1996 from an ideological split with one of France’s largest union confederations, the Confédération Française Démocratique du Travail (CFDT). SUD-Rail forms part of a wider set of SUD unions that have emerged since the late-1980s with the stated aim of revitalising French unionism by mobilising new collectivities and energising workplace union structures. This paper analyses the development of this movement over the last fifteen years, its attempts to renew and revitalise collective action and organisation, and explores the wider implications for union renewal in France. The paper argues that the development of SUD-Rail represents evidence of Hyman’s oft-mentioned tension in the identity of unions as both movements and organisations which has wider implications for understanding the possibilities and limitations of union action.
Will the real Richard Hyman please stand up?
Authors: Hyman Richard
Published: February 2012

In this article, Richard Hyman responds to the seven preceding contributions and offers some general reflections.
Union politics, purpose and democracy: To be or not to be? Optimism, pessimism and the continuing importance of Richard Hyman’s early contributions
Authors: Martínez Lucio Miguel
Published: February 2012

Richard Hyman’s work presents us with a rich portrayal of questions of solidarity and its meaning, the re-imagining of union roles, and the complex identity of unions, located in a concern with emancipation and worker representation. Hyman’s early work of the 1970s acts as a vital precursor for such concerns and offers a rich set of concepts explaining the dilemma of labour representation, its inherent instability, and the importance of the role of the political in shaping it, even if the concept of the political is underdeveloped. Drawing on a series of texts in a discursive and reflective manner, it points to the irony that the discussion in that period has more to tell us than many currently think. The question of politics and democracy – and purpose – in trade unions is discussed in terms of the tensions and ambivalence that exists within the employment relation and the way notions of achievement and progress are understood, and not just the contouring of the institutional landscape.