bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Duodenum preserving pancreatectomy in chronic pancreatitis: Design of a randomized controlled trial comparing two surgical techniques [ISRCTN50638764]
Authors: Köninger Jörg , Seiler Christoph M , Wente Moritz N , Reidel Margot A , Gazyakan Emre , Mansmann Ulrich , Müller Michael W , Friess Helmut , Büchler Markus W
Published: May 2006

Background

Chronic pancreatitis is an inflammatory disease which is characterized by an irreversible conversion of pancreatic parenchyma to fibrous tissue. Beside obstructive jaundice and pseudocyst formation, about half of the patients need surgical intervention due to untreatable chronic pain during the course of the disease. In most of the patients with chronic pancreatitis, the head of the pancreas is the trigger of the chronic inflammatory process. Therefore, resection of pancreatic head tissue must be the central part of any surgical intervention. However, it is unclear to which extent the surgical procedure must be radical in order to obtain a favourable outcome for the patients.

Design

A single centre randomized controlled, superiority trial to compare two techniques of duodenum preserving pancreatic head resection. Sample size: 65 patients will be included and randomized intraoperatively. Eligibility criteria: All patients with chronic pancreatitis and indication for surgical resection and signed informed consent. Cumulative primary endpoint (hierarchical model): duration of surgical procedure, quality of life after one year, duration of intensive care unit stay, duration of hospital stay. Reference treatment: Resection of the pancreatic head with dissection of the pancreas from the portal vein and transsection of the gland (Beger procedure). Intervention: Partial Resection of the pancreatic head without transsection of the organ and visualization of the portal vein (Berne procedure).

Duration: September 2003-October 2007.

Organisation/responsibility

The trial is conducted in compliance with the protocol and in accordance with the moral, ethical, regulatory and scientific principles governing clinical research as set out in the Declaration of Helsinki (1989) and the Good Clinical Practice guideline (GCP). The Center for Clinical Studies of the Department of Surgery Heidelberg is responsible for planning, conducting and final analysis of the trial.
Reducing Cancer Disparities for Minorities: A Multidisciplinary Research Agenda to Improve Patient Access to Health Systems, Clinical Trials, and Effective Cancer Therapy
Authors: Bruner Deborah Watkins , Jones Michele , Buchanan David , Russo Jose
Published: May 2006

Ethnic diversity in recruitment is a vital prerequisite to eliminating health disparities in cancer treatment, control and prevention programs. Much anecdotal reporting, but little scientific rigor, has been applied to the study of methods to improve the recruitment of minorities into cancer control or treatment trials. Even the most innovative research is stymied by the lack of representative samples of the populations that the research is designed to serve. The goals of this article are to describe a theory-driven framework for improving minority recruitment to clinical and cancer control trials, to explain organizational prerequisites to improving minority recruitment, and to provide empirical evidence of success in initial efforts to recruit to cancer control studies. These programs are offered as models for improving minority recruitment to cancer-control and -treatment trials, and minority access to cancer treatment in general.
Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Breast Cancer Mortality: Are We Doing Enough to Address the Root Causes?
Authors: Blackman Dionne J. , Masi Christopher M.
Published: May 2006

Breast cancer is the most common noncutaneous malignancy and the second most lethal form of cancer among women in the United States. Mortality from breast cancer has declined since the late 1980s, but this decline has been steeper among white women compared with black women. As a result, the black:white mortality rate ratio has increased over the last two decades. Other ethnic minorities also suffer from disproportionately high breast cancer mortality rates. This review discusses the causes of racial and ethnic disparities in breast cancer mortality and describes the most common approaches to reducing these disparities. The literature suggests that outcome disparities are related to patient-, provider-, and health system–level factors. Lack of insurance, fear of testing, delay in seeking care, and unfavorable tumor characteristics all contribute to disparities at the patient level. At the provider level, insufficient screening, poor follow-up of abnormal screening tests, and nonadherence to guideline-based treatments add to outcome disparities. High copayment requirements, lack of a usual source of care, fragmentation of care, and uneven distribution of screening and treatment resources exacerbate disparities at the health system level. Although pilot programs have increased breast cancer screening among select populations, persistent disparities in mortality suggest that changes are needed at the policy level to address the root causes of these disparities.
2006 Update of Recommendations for the Use of White Blood Cell Growth Factors: An Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guideline
Authors: Smith Thomas J. , Khatcheressian James , Lyman Gary H. , Ozer Howard , Armitage James O. , Balducci Lodovico , Bennett Charles L. , Cantor Scott B. , Crawford Jeffrey , Cross Scott J. , Demetri George , Desch Christopher E. , Pizzo Philip A. , Schiffer Charles A. , Schwartzberg Lee , Somerfield Mark R. , Somlo George , Wade James C. , Wade James L. , Winn Rodger J. , Wozniak Antoinette J. , Wolff Antonio C.
Published: May 2006

Purpose

To update the 2000 American Society of Clinical Oncology guideline on the use of hematopoietic colony-stimulating factors (CSF).

Update Methodology

The Update Committee completed a review and analysis of pertinent data published from 1999 through September 2005. Guided by the 1996 ASCO clinical outcomes criteria, the Update Committee formulated recommendations based on improvements in survival, quality of life, toxicity reduction and cost-effectiveness.

Recommendations

The 2005 Update Committee agreed unanimously that reduction in febrile neutropenia (FN) is an important clinical outcome that justifies the use of CSFs, regardless of impact on other factors, when the risk of FN is approximately 20% and no other equally effective regimen that does not require CSFs is available. Primary prophylaxis is recommended for the prevention of FN in patients who are at high risk based on age, medical history, disease characteristics, and myelotoxicity of the chemotherapy regimen. CSF use allows a modest to moderate increase in dose-density and/or dose-intensity of chemotherapy regimens. Dose-dense regimens should only be used within an appropriately designed clinical trial or if supported by convincing efficacy data. Prophylactic CSF for patients with diffuse aggressive lymphoma aged 65 years and older treated with curative chemotherapy (CHOP or more aggressive regimens) should be given to reduce the incidence of FN and infections. Current recommendations for the management of patients exposed to lethal doses of total body radiotherapy, but not doses high enough to lead to certain death due to injury to other organs, includes the prompt administration of CSF or pegylated G-CSF.
Effects of Ascorbic Acid Concentration on the Tissue Engineering of the Temporomandibular Joint Disc
Authors: Bean A C , Almarza A J , Athanasiou K A
Published: May 2006

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disc is a specialized fibrocartilaginous tissue. When the disc becomes an obstacle and becomes damaged, surgeons have no choice but to perform a discectomy. Tissue engineering may provide a novel treatment modality for TMJ disorder patients who undergo discectomy. No studies have been conducted on the most favourable media for TMJ disc cells. The objective of the current study was to examine the effects on biochemical and biomechanical properties of varying ascorbic acid concentrations (0, 25, or 50 μg/ml) on TMJ disc cells seeded on non-woven PGA scaffolds. The ascorbic acid concentration of the 25 μg/ml group resulted in more effective cell seeding of the scaffolds, with 1.53 million cells per construct, by comparison with the 0 and 50 μg/ml groups which had 1.20 million and 1.32 million cells per scaffold respectively. At week 4, the 25 μg/ml group had a higher collagen content than the 0 μg/ml group, with 30.4 ± 2.7 and 24.9 ± 3.3 μg of collagen per construct respectively. The 25 μg/ml group had a higher aggregate modulus than the 50 μg/ml group, with values of 6.1 ± 1.3 and 4.0 ± 0.9 kPa respectively at week 4. The results of this study indicate that the use of 25 μg/ml of ascorbic acid in culture media is effective for the tissue engineering of the TMJ disc, significantly outperforming media without or with 50 μg/ml of ascorbic acid.
Validation of the Soft Tissue Restraints in a Force-Controlled Knee Simulator
Authors: Houtem M van , Clough R , Khan A , Harrison M , Blunn G W
Published: May 2006

In vitro testing of total knee replacements (TKRs) is important both at the design stage and after the production of the final components. It can predict long-term in vivo wear of TKRs. The two philosophies for knee testing are to drive the motion by displacement or to drive the motion by force. Both methods have advantages and disadvantages. For force control an accurate simulation of soft tissue restraints is required. This study was devised to assess the accuracy of the soft tissue restraints of the force-controlled Stanmore knee simulator in simulating the restraining forces of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and posterior cruciate ligament (PCL). In order to do this, human cadaver knee joints were subjected to the ISO Standard Walking Cycle. The resulting kinematics were monitored when the soft tissue structures were intact, when the ACL and PCL were resected, and when they were simulated by springs positioned anteriorly and posteriorly. The stiffness of the springs was determined from the literature. Two different stiffnesses of springs were used which were 7.24 N/mm (designated as soft springs) and 33.8 N/mm (designated as hard springs).

All the intact knees showed displacements that were within the range of the machine. Cutting the ACL and PCL resulted in anterior and posterior motion and internal external rotation that were significantly greater than the intact knee. Results showed that when the ACL and PCL were cut hard springs positioned anterior and posterior to the knee returned the knee to near normal anterior-posterior (AP) motion. Using hard springs in the posterior position in any condition reduced rotational displacements. Therefore using springs in a force-controlled simulator is a compromise. More accuracy may be obtained using springs that are of intermediate stiffness.
Modelling and Control of a Parallel Redundant Manipulator with Hydraulic Actuators
Authors: Liu Y , Handroos H , Wu H
Published: May 2006

The parallel robotic manipulator, MULTIPOD, is specially designed for carrying out drilling tasks in mines. It is based on two parallel three-degree-of-freedom mechanisms in serial connection. The structure that provides excellent stiffness is hydraulically driven and has six degrees of mobility. The pose of the end-effector is described by five degrees of freedom. In this paper, complete kinematic and dynamic analyses of the manipulator are carried out. In addition, a proportional controller equipped with hydraulic force feedback is designed for the robot. The simulated results that demonstrate the behaviour of the manipulator are presented in this paper.
Heat Transfer and Effective Thermal Conductivity Analyses in Carbon-Based Foams for Use in Thermal Protection Systems
Authors: Grujicic M , Zhao C L , Biggers S B , Kennedy J M , Morgan D R
Published: May 2006

The applicability of carbon-based foams as an insulation material in the thermal protection systems (TPSs) of space vehicles is considered using a physical analysis and computer modelling. The heat transfer through the foam is considered through its solid phase and the gas residing in the foam pores via conduction and radiation. As the cellular structure of the foam prevents a large-scale motion of the gas, thermal convection is neglected as a heat transfer mode. The results obtained show that, although the gas-phase conduction and radiation can be ignored at near-room temperatures and at sub-atmospheric pressures, their contributions at high temperatures and at near-atmospheric pressure become very significant. It is also found that one can derive an analytical expression for the effective thermal conductivity (a parameter that combines the contributions of both conduction and radiation) as a function of temperature and pressure. Such an expression is shown to be valid for quite large ranges of temperature, pressure, and insulation thickness and, due to its mathematical simplicity, is very suitable for use in computationally intensive large-scale thermo-mechanical analyses of the entire TPS of a space vehicle.
Parametric Analysis of Stresses in Welded Branched Pipes Under Creep Conditions
Authors: Rayner G , Hyde T H , Leen S B , Sun W
Published: May 2006

The effect of weld properties on the steady-state creep rupture stresses, failure lives, and failure positions within multi-material finite element models of three typical branched steam pipe configurations is investigated using service-aged CrMoV creep properties. A general formulation, multi-material interpolation technique for steady-state creep is shown to be applicable to the parametric study of a three-material welded branched pipe with respect to the steady-state creep constants. An approximate interpolation procedure for power-law creep is implemented to reduce the number of analyses needed to span the range of material parameters. The method is used to predict creep stresses at several critical regions within the heat-affected zones, parent material, and weld metal regions of the branched pipe for three typical CrMoV weldment material sets. The advantages of the method are related to the small number of analyses required and the simple and compact way of presenting results for weld assessment and design. The results can be used to improve life-assessment procedures and to provide guidance to component designers.
Precombustion Chamber NOx Emission Contribution to an Industrial Natural Gas Engine
Authors: Gingrich J W , Olsen D B , Puzinauskas P , Willson B D
Published: May 2006

This work expands the knowledge base concerning the formation of oxides of nitrogen (NO x) in the precombustion chamber (PCC) of a four-stroke lean burn (4SLB) industrial gas engine. Two analysis methods were used to characterize specific exhaust constituent concentrations formed in the PCC.

The first method extracted gas from the PCC and the overall engine exhaust to be analysed by the industry standard five gas rack (THC, NO x, O 2, CO 2, and CO) and a Fourier transform infrared spectrometer (FTIR) to quantify formaldehyde (CH2O), nitric oxide (NO), and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) concentrations. This paper focuses only on NO x. The engine was operated at the manufacturer's recommended conditions and at the engine's lean limit. A PCC air-fuel ratio (A/F) map was performed at each engine operating condition by varying the fuel supply pressure to the PCC. An analytical model was developed to estimate the mass flow between the PCC and main cylinder, and mass flow out of the PCC through a sample extraction apparatus. The model was applied at specific instances during the engine cycle to clarify raw emissions data obtained directly from a cylinde's PCC. The model was developed to determine the origin of the mass sampled from the PCC which, in turn, was used to correct the measured pollutant concentrations. The corrected concentrations allowed for a comparison between NO x, emissions formed in the PCC and the overall engine exhaust on a mass specific basis. PCC-formed NO x, were found to constitute ε10 per cent while operating at the manufacture's recommended conditions and upwards of ε75 per cent when at the lean limit.

The second test method utilized the high-speed chemiluminescence capabilities of a Cambustion fNOX400 analyser to measure NO concentration in gas extracted from the PCC on a half crank angle basis. The intra-cycle NO data were recorded simultaneously with pressure traces from the PCC and main cylinder by a Hi-Techniques combustion analysis system. The high-speed data acquisition system provided qualitative information on both intra-cycle NO concentrations and cycle-to-cycle variations.
Enhanced Evolution of CO and Suppressed Formation of Hydrocarbons in Electroreduction of CO2 at a Copper Electrode Modified with Cadmium
Authors: Hori Yoshio , Murata Akira , Ito Shin-ya
Published: May 2006

Copper electrode modified with Cd was studied for reduction of CO2 in 0.1 M KHCO3 solution by in-situ deposition. Reduction of CO2 to CH4 and C2H4 is heavily prevented by a small amount of Cd with CO release significantly promoted. Anode stripping showed that Cd exists as adatoms.
Palladium Catalyzed Transformation of Benzene to Phenol with Molecular Oxygen
Authors: Jintoku Tetsuro , Nishimura Koichi , Takaki Ken , Fujiwara Yuzo
Published: May 2006

Very high turnover numbers of the catalyst in direct phenol synthesis from benzene have been attained using palladium catalyst, to give 25% yield of phenol based on the starting benzene.
A Short and Efficient Synthetic Method for the Corticosteroid Side-Chain from 17-Keto Steroids
Authors: Kataoka Hideaki , Watanabe Kiyoshi , Miyazaki Ken-ichi , Tahara Shin-ichiro , Ogu Ken-ichi , Matsuoka Rikitaro , Goto Kuniaki
Published: May 2006

21-Acyloxy-16(17)-ene-20-keto steroids were synthesized from 17-keto steroids in 4 steps using palladium(II)-catalyzed oxidative rearrangement of propargyl esters as a key reaction.
N-Benzyl Pyridinium Salts as New Useful Catalysts for Transformation of Epoxides to Cyclic Acetals, Orthoesters, and Orthocarbonates
Authors: Lee Sang-Bong , Takata Toshikazu , Endo Takeshi
Published: May 2006

In the presence of catalytic amount of N-(4-methoxybenzyl)-2-cyanopyridinium hexafluoroantimonate, the reaction of a few epoxides with aldehydes, ketones, lactones, and carbonates efficiently afforded corresponding cyclic acetals, orthoesters, and Orthocarbonates under mild conditions.
Isoporphyrins. Near-Infrared Dyes with Noticeable Photochemical and Redox Properties
Authors: Takeda Yoshihiko , Takahara Shigeru , Kobayashi Yoshiko , Misawa Hiroaki , Sakuragi Hirochika , Tokumaru Katsumi
Published: May 2006

An isoporphyrin prepared by the action of dibenzoyl peroxide on 5,10,15,20-tetraphenylporphinatozinc(II) (ZnTPP) shows absorption bands in the near-infrared region, is photolyzed to afford ZnTPP, and is facilely reduced by amines to ZnTPP.
Nepalensolide A, Novel Sesquiterpene Lactone from the Liverwort Frullania nepalensis. Compound Breaking the Samek Rule. A Study by NOE and X-Ray
Authors: Tori Motoo , Miyazaki Naomi , Kondo Keiko , Taira Zenei , Asakawa Yoshinori
Published: May 2006

The structure of a new sesquiterpene lactone, nepalensolide A, from the liverwort Frullania nepalensis has been determined by spectroscopic considerations and X-ray analysis. Since the compound does not obey the Samek rule, the conformation has to be considered when we use this rule.
Self-Assembly of a Twin Liquid Crystalline Complex through Intermolecular Hydrogen Bondings
Authors: Kato Takashi , Fujishima Akira , Fréchet Jean M J
Published: May 2006

A new type of twin liquid crystalline complex having two terminal mesogenic units and a central flexible spacer has been formed through intermolecular hydrogen bonds between a nonmesogenic aliphatic diacid and mesogenic stilbazoles.
Samarium(II) Di-iodide Induced Synthesis of Allylic Phenyl Selenides from Allylic Acetates and Diphenyl Diselenide in the Presence of Palladium Catalyst
Authors: Fukuzawa Shin-ichi , Fujinami Tatsuo , Sakai Shizuyoshi
Published: May 2006

Allylic phenyl selenides are prepared efficiently from the reaction of allylic acetates and diphenyl diselenide induced by samarium(II) diiodide in the presence of a palladium catalyst under mild conditions.
Are Global per Capita CO2 Emissions Likely to Remain Stable?
Authors: Holtsmark Bjart
Published: May 2006

Global per capita CO2 emissions have been relatively stable during the last three decades. It has been suggested that this stability has been ignored by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and its scenario makers. If the global per capita emissions remain stable at the current level, most IPCC scenarios show emissions paths that are too high. This paper presents a simple analytical framework that offers a general explanation of the stability of global per capita CO2 emissions during recent decades. Moreover, the paper argues that it is difficult to see why the stability of global per capita CO2 emissions during the last few decades should persist and that current trends in regional per capita emissions are in close agreement with the IPCC scenarios.
Transparency in Information Architecture: Enabling Large Scale Creative Collaboration in Architectural Education over the Internet
Authors: Hirschberg Urs
Published: May 2006

This paper is about networked collaboration in architectural education and about information architecture for networked collaborations. It presents results of a quantitative process analysis of two types of courses in Computer Aided Architectural Design that were taught using database-driven online environments. The main focus of the quantitative analysis is the performance of these online environments as information structures, designed to accommodate the presentation and the peer-to-peer exchange of design information for relatively large groups of between 60 and 150 participants. Using the database records to reconstruct the processes, three different quantitative analyses are described. Their results indicate that for these projects the web-environments were successful in enhancing peer-to-peer learning and that they promoted a more objective assessment of the submitted works. The study also looks at the effect that the environments themselves had on the process. Finally it draws some conclusions about these environments' information architecture: it presents tentative guidelines about how such environments must be designed to handle the dynamic display of design data, from many different authors, in a way that is transparent to the users.
3D Models of Urban Icons: Tracing Benjamin and Koolhaas
Authors: Kós José R.
Published: May 2006

Walter Benjamin and Rem Koolhaas developed two significant investigations, which explored the culture of Paris and New York through the analysis of their architectural artifacts. Their research projects successfully construct, from a few meaningful components of the built environment, an understanding of the overall city and its society. The objective of this paper is to address the similarities between the research carried out at the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro and the work of these two acclaimed writers. Our group aims to select urban icons, from different moments and areas in Rio de Janeiro, to be studied in order to understand the city evolution in the XX Century. The distinguished Ministry of Education building is the investigation's prototype, analyzed thorough several 3D models and other digital techniques. We conclude that a thorough study of Benjamin's and Koolhaas' work should be considered a primary support for the interrogation of our own investigation.
The Aztec Templo Mayor — A Visualization
Authors: Serrato-Combe Antonio
Published: May 2006

This article documents research in the field of virtual reconstructions of the past. It makes the point that in order to truly develop the bases of a solid appreciation of cultural patrimonies, historic virtual reconstructions need to incorporate a willingness to achieve higher digital modeling and rendering qualities. And, they should also be well integrated into history courses at all education levels and through a variety of means of communication. In other words, our ability to explore, to interpret and to appropriately use digital tools needs to aspire to greater and more penetrating abilities to reconstruct the past.

As a case study, the paper presents the theoretical reconstruction of the Aztec Templo Mayor in Mexico (1). The presentation describes how a variety of digital approaches was used to grasp and appreciate the very significant architectural contributions of the early inhabitants of the Americas.
Real and Virtual Spaces Generated by Music
Authors: Levy Adrián J.
Published: May 2006

The main objective of this research work is to explore a new digital design process. This new method for the creation of spaces (referred to as Data Representation Architecture) entails the choice of any element from the everyday world, and the creation, by means of a digital a process, of either a real or a virtual space. In this particular case, the real element is music. Various melodies, some of them famous and some of them new or specially composed for the project, materialize their basic information and generate novel spaces. For each musical composition, many instruments were played, and the sound of each of them was then materialized in the final space. This is how alternative design processes are born, and a completely new architecture defined. In order to accomplish this research work, it was necessary to combine knowledge from different fields; namely, architecture, music, mathematics and computer science.
Performing Cyberspace: Dance, Technology and Virtual Architecture
Authors: Tosello Maria E.
Published: May 2006

This project investigates the design, construction and experimentation in digital environments. The work intends to contribute to the evolution of the virtual universe by studying what can be particular architectural expressions of cyberspace. Specifically the project explores the potential architectural manifestations of existential situations in cyberspace. The design goal is to artistically express, through virtual environments, the invisible part of ourselves, our thoughts and emotions. This work critically engages the cyberPRINT, a ongoing creative-research project of Prof. Bermudez and the C.R.O.M.D.I team at the University of Utah in the U.S.A. [1] This project uses the cyberPRINT concept and technology of obtaining physiological data and translating them into digital spaces. However, it proposes a new “world” for the cyberPRINT. The final product consists in a performance where a dancer sends his biological signals to the computer to generate and transform digital environments, and also represents through his movements, the desired existential situation.
Tangible Design Media: Toward An Interactive CAD Platform
Authors: Jeng Taysheng , Lee Chia-Hsun
Published: May 2006

This paper presents an interactive CAD platform that uses a tangible user interface to visualize and modify 3D geometry through manipulation of physical artifacts. The tangible user interface attempts to move away from the commonly used non-intuitive desktop CAD environment to a 3D CAD environment that more accurately mimics traditional desktop drawing and pin-up situations. An important goal is to reduce the apparent complexity of CAD user interfaces and reduce the cognitive load on designers. Opportunities for extending tangible design media toward an interactive CAD platform are discussed.
On Classifying Daylight for Design
Authors: Glaser Daniel , Peng James
Published: May 2006

In this paper, we present LiQuID, a tool for clustering lighting simulation data. Photographs are useful vehicles for both describing and making assessments of architectural lighting systems. A significant barrier to using photographs during the design process relates to the sheer volume of renderings that needs to be analyzed. Although there have been efforts to produce novel visualization systems to manage large sets of photographs, this research aims to reduce the complexity by classifying data into representative prototypes. A hypothetical case study is discussed.
On the Archiving of Tom Mavers' Bibliography (1969-)
Authors: Martens Bob
Published: May 2006

Professor Tom Maver has authored and co-authored nearly 150 publications in the course of his academic career so far. A substantial part of this work has been collected in a paper-based format and most of this has now been converted to a digital format. The bibliographical citations have been recorded – together with digital full paper versions – in CUMINCAD (Cumulative Index on CAD – http://cumincad.SciX.net ). A closer examination of the collected archive of these publications and their global impact will be given in this contribution. Finally, a brief outline of possible future work will be presented.
A Personal Retrospective
Authors: Maver Tom
Published: May 2006

This is a Personal reflection looking back over the period from my initial involvement in Building Performance in the 1960s through to research in CAAD today.
Let There Be Light! Knowledge-Based 3-D Sketching Design Tools
Authors: Do Ellen Yi-Luen , Gross Mark D.
Published: May 2006

This paper presents a framework for 3D knowledge-based sketching tools for lighting design and two software prototypes built to illustrate sketch-based interaction with intelligent systems in 3-D domains. Spot supports direct sunlight simulation and visualization in a selected time period and Light Pen supports placement of electric lighting designs to light an intended area in space. In both examples, a 3-D sketching front-end is coupled with a back-end knowledge-based system. This enables a designer to pose a problem by drawing onto a 3-D model to which the knowledge-based system offers a solution – in one case by providing quantitative data analysis; in the other by modifying the 3-D model. Spot and Light Pen's specific domain of architectural lighting design exemplifies a more general class of 3-D interaction with intelligent systems.
Teaching Programming for and with Microcontroller-Enhanced Physical Models
Authors: Fischer Thomas
Published: May 2006

As processes of use, interaction and transformation take center stage in various fields of design, electronic sensors, controllers, displays and actuators can significantly enhance the value of physical models. These technologies allow the development of novel computer interfaces for new kinds of interaction with virtual models, and in the future they can be expected to play an important role in the development of new types of active building components and materials for automated construction and dynamic runtime adaptations of inhabitable environments. However, embedding programmed logic into physical objects involves skills outside the traditional domains of expertise of designers and model makers and confronts them with a steep learning curve. The wide variety of alternative technologies and development tools available in this area has a particularly disorienting effect on novices. However, some early experiences suggest that mastery of this learning curve is easily within reach, given some basic introduction, guidance and support. To assist design students in acquiring a basic level of programming knowledge, better educational programming tools are still required. It is the intent of this paper to provide designers and educators with a starting point for explorations into this area as well as to report on the development of an educational approach to electronics programming called haptic programming.
Cybrid Principles: Guidelines for Merging Physical and Cyber Spaces
Authors: Anders Peter
Published: May 2006

This article introduces seven principles for the design of mixed reality compositions. Contrasting the novelty of mixed reality technology, we have derived these principles from basic needs served by traditional architecture as well as those that have arisen since the introduction of information technologies. These principles draw also from research in cognitive science, human-computer interface design and the recognition of the multivalent, psychosomatic nature of space.
Filmic Development of Architectural Animations
Authors: Alvarado Rodrigo García , Castillo Gino Alvarez , Márquez Juan Carlos Parra , Mayorga Sergio Navarro
Published: May 2006

This paper proposes a general method to make animated presentations of architectural designs, based on cinematographic techniques. Particularly, it reviews theoretical documenttion about filmmaking as well as several productions that exhibit remarkable locations. The proposed method first comprises of a planning stage, with the narrative and graphic formulation of the presentation. Next is an elaboration or adjustment stage for the digital modelling of the design, and finally, there is an animation production and editing stage. Likewise, the research sets up a computer implementation of some activities and characteristics, and experiments in the programming of camera movements for architectural animations. In general, this work suggests focusing on the communication of the qualitative features of the design, instead of the elaboration of the digital model, and on emphasizing the visual diversity, graphic style and narrative construction of the presentation.
Confluence of Building Information for Design, Construction and Management of Buildings
Authors: Ozel Filiz
Published: May 2006

Professionals who are involved in design, construction and occupancy phases of a building not only generate information that must eventually be used by other building professionals, but also they themselves must use data and information provided by others such as product manufacturers, planning departments, etc. The integration of information and data through all phases of the life cycle of a building is important as it impacts the work done by a large number of constituents in the building industry. Seamless integration of such information has been a bigger concern for those who are downstream users of the data generated by the architect as he/she designs a building. Such downstream users can range from structural engineers to construction managers, from facility managers to building asset managers. More recently, the considerable increase in the design and operation of intelligent buildings that incorporate a very wide range of technologies has rendered this coordination more important than ever.
The Digital Ornament Using CAAD/CAAM Technologies
Authors: Loveridge Russell , Strehlke Kai
Published: May 2006

New digital technologies are challenging the traditions of the architectural design methodology, the relationship between context and design, and the dependency on skilled workmanship for the fabrication of beautiful and complex architecture. Intellectually, applications of digital technologies are also allowing for the reinvestigation, reinterpretation, and redevelopment of historical concepts, theories, and skills[1]. Our focus of ornament in this paper is presented as a constrained architectural testing ground, a reduced issue that still addresses the primary issues of geometry, aesthetics, individualism, and the transferal of design to materiality. Our work on digital ornament combines the traditionally intuitive skills of geometric & graphic manipulations with easily edited input (variables and digital images), control through parametric programming, and automated output (CNC manufacturing). The combination of these processes allows for efficient diversity and uniqueness of design, while also compensating for the increasing cost and declining availability of skilled artisans for the physical fabrication. The presented projects in teaching, research, and professional activities demonstrate our ongoing experiments with new technologies of programmed surface modeling and computer numerically controlled manufacturing (CNC manufacturing). This work has been incorporated in real world projects, both in the revitalization historic buildings, and in new applications of ornament in contemporary architecture.
The Anti-Drugs-in-Sport Movement: Causes for Concern
Authors: Rushall Brent S. , Jones Max
Published: May 2006

A critical analysis of some of the functions of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and its affiliates was performed. The manner in which the banned substance list was formed; the attribution of performance-enhancement; and the conduct of urine sample collection, transportation, analysis and reporting were found to be deficient. The secretive nature of WADA has not fostered conformity with scientific procedures and attributes, particularly the independent objective verification of principles and statement content These authors believe it is inevitable that if WADA continues its current practices, professional athletes will be driven out of the Olympic Games The actions and scope of WADA are causes for grave concern.
Identification of small Hfq-binding RNAs in Listeria monocytogenes
Authors: Christiansen Janne K. , Nielsen Jesper S. , Ebersbach Tine , Valentin-Hansen Poul , Søgaard-Andersen Lotte , Kallipolitis Birgitte H.
Published: May 2006

The RNA-binding protein Hfq plays important roles in bacterial physiology and is required for the activity of many small regulatory RNAs in prokaryotes. We have previously shown that Hfq contributes to stress tolerance and virulence in the Gram-positive human pathogen Listeria monocytogenes. In the present study, we performed coimmunoprecipitations followed by enzymatic RNA sequencing to identify Hfq-binding RNA molecules in L. monocytogenes. The approach resulted in the discovery of three small RNAs (sRNAs). The sRNAs are conserved between Listeria species, but were not identified in other bacterial species. The initial characterization revealed a number of unique features displayed by each individual sRNA. The first sRNA is encoded from within an annotated gene in the L. monocytogenes EGD-e genome. Analogous to most regulatory sRNAs in Escherichia coli, the stability of this sRNA is highly dependent on the presence of Hfq. The second sRNA appears to be produced by a transcription attenuation mechanism, and the third sRNA is present in five copies at two different locations within the L. monocytogenes EGD-e genome. The cellular levels of the sRNAs are growth phase dependent and vary in response to growth medium. All three sRNAs are expressed when L. monocytogenes multiplies within mammalian cells. This study represents the first attempt to identify sRNAs in L. monocytogenes.
Bridge over a philosophical divide
Authors: Higgins Paul A.T. , Chan Kai M.A. , Porder Stephen
Published: May 2006

English

A deep philosophical divide exists between ‘strictly objective’ scientists, who believe that engaging in civic debates undermines objectivity, and ‘citizen scientists’, who believe scientists can – and at times should – help decision makers incorporate sound scientific knowledge. Here we suggest that the threat posed to scientific objectivity by the escalating politicisation of science provides a limited bridge between these competing philosophical views: a commitment to scientific objectivity requires a greater civic presence.
Insufficient filling of vacuum tubes as a cause of microhemolysis and elevated serum lactate dehydrogenase levels. Use of a data-mining technique in evaluation of questionable laboratory test results
Authors: Tamechika Yoshie , Iwatani Yoshinori , Tohyama Kaoru , Ichihara Kiyoshi
Published: May 2006

Experienced physicians noted unexpectedly elevated concentrations of lactate dehydrogenase in some patient samples, but quality control specimens showed no bias. To evaluate this problem, we used a “latent reference individual extraction method”, designed to obtain reference intervals from a laboratory database by excluding individuals who have abnormal results for basic analytes other than the analyte in question, in this case lactate dehydrogenase. The reference interval derived for the suspected year was 264–530U/L, while that of the previous year was 248–495U/L. The only change we found was the introduction of an order entry system, which requests precise sampling volumes rather than complete filling of vacuum tubes. The effect of vacuum persistence was tested using ten freshly drawn blood samples. Compared with complete filling, 1/5 filling resulted in average elevations of lactate dehydrogenase, aspartic aminotransferase, and potassium levels of 8.0%, 3.8%, and 3.4%, respectively (all p<0.01). Microhemolysis was confirmed using a urine stick method. The length of time before centrifugation determined the degree of hemolysis, while vacuum during centrifugation did not affect it. Microhemolysis is the probable cause of the suspected pseudo-elevation noted by the physicians. Data-mining methodology represents a valuable tool for monitoring long-term bias in laboratory results.
Improvement in Risk Factors for Metabolic Syndrome and Insulin Resistance in Overweight Youth Who Are Treated With Lifestyle Intervention
Authors: Monzavi Roshanak , Dreimane Daina , Geffner Mitchell E. , Braun Sharon , Conrad Barry , Klier Mary , Kaufman Francine R.
Published: May 2006

OBJECTIVE. To evaluate the prevalence of risk factors that are associated with the metabolic syndrome and insulin resistance in overweight youth and to determine the effect of a short-term, family-centered, lifestyle intervention on various associated anthropometric and metabolic measures.

METHODS. Overweight youth who were between 8 and 16 years of age participated in a 12-week, family-centered, lifestyle intervention program. Anthropometric and metabolic measures were assessed before the program in all participants (n = 109) and after the program in a subset of the participants (n = 43).

RESULTS. At baseline, 49.5% of youth had multiple risk factors associated with the metabolic syndrome, based on a modified definition of the National Cholesterol Education Program, and 10% had impaired fasting glucose and/or impaired glucose tolerance. Measures of insulin resistance correlated significantly with the risk factors of the metabolic syndrome. Forty-three youth had pre- and postintervention evaluations that showed statistically significant improvements in body mass index, systolic blood pressure, lipids (total, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and triglycerides), postprandial glucose, and leptin levels.

CONCLUSION. Overweight youth have multiple risk factors associated with the metabolic syndrome. A 12-week lifestyle program may have a positive effect on reducing risk factors for the metabolic syndrome and insulin resistance in overweight youth.
Ecological gradients in some Sphagnum mires in the south‐eastern Alps (Italy)
Authors: Bragazza L. , Gerdol R.
Published: May 2006

Abstract. Vegetation was sampled at 170 plots in five mires in the Italian Alps to characterize the distribution of plant species along the main environmental gradients. Water‐table depth, water pH, electrical conductivity, Ca‐, Mg‐, K‐ and Na‐concen‐trations in soil pore water, shade intensity, and distance from the mire margin were determined at each plot. At mire margins the water table was deeper than in the mire expanse, and K‐, Ca‐ and Mg‐concentrations, and conductivity were higher. The first and by far most important axis of a DCCA‐ordination was interpreted as a gradient of water‐table depth, in relation to the distance from the mire margin, whereas the second axis was mainly associated with water pH.
Scenario modeling for conservation management in the En Afeq Nature Reserve, Israel
Authors: Olsvig‐Whittaker Linda , Schipper Piet , Heitkonig Ignas , Magal Yonat , Ortal Reuven , Shy Eyal , Sýkora Karle
Published: May 2006

Abstract. Conservation management has significant gaps between (1) collection and storage of biological data, (2) data analysis, and (3) application of results. In order to improve management decision‐making, it is necessary to bridge these gaps. One of the most promising approaches uses computer‐based decision support systems (DSS): interactive models of the system in question—for example, a nature reserve. One kind of DSS is scenario modeling: spatially‐based models which (1) use expert opinion and data on vegetation, geology, hydrology, and management, (2) to project changes in landscape through time, (3) on the basis of changes in driving environmental factors. Scenario models are essentially graphic hypotheses, predicting changes in landscape with a specified change in driving factors, which can then be verified or falsified by monitoring.

This paper presents an application of this approach to an Israeli nature reserve, the En Afeq Reserve in western Galilee. Our project tests the possibility of improving Israeli conservation management by using methods now standard for nature reserves in the Netherlands.
Influence of management on the species composition of epiphytic cryptogams in DanishFagusforests
Authors: Aude Erik , Poulsen Roar S.
Published: May 2006

Abstract.The purpose of this study is to evaluate and to quantify the influence of management on the epiphytic species composition in DanishFagus sylvaticaforests. Trunks were chosen at random within selected blocks in both managed and unmanagedFagusstands.117 trunks in 43 sample plots in three forests were investigated. Cover was estimated for 72 lichens, 29 bryophytes and two fungi on vertical trunks 0.3 ‐2 m above ground. 18 explanatory variables were recorded and arranged in three groups: eight management‐related variables, six micro‐climatic‐ and soil variables, and four geographical‐ and geological variables. Canonical Correspondence Analysis was used to test and to quantify the explaining power of the three groups of variables applying the variation partitioning approach. Detrended Correspondence Analysis was used to evaluate whether important gradients were ignored. It was concluded that the traditional ‘shelterwood uniform system’ used inFagusforests has a marked influence on the epiphytic species composition. Thus, management‐related variables explained more than one third of the total variation explained, which equals 10.9% of the total variation. Microclimatic and soil variables explained 9.0%, and geographical and geological variables explained 6.0%. The following three recommendations are suggested to reduce the significant influence of management on the epiphytic species composition. First, it should be attempted to ensure a continuous occurrence of some big trees per ha to be left for natural death and decomposition. Second, regular thinning is necessary, especially in the first part of rotation. Third, a multi‐layered forest, where wind and desiccation effects are minimized, is recommended.
Potential natural vegetation: validity and applicability in landscape planning and nature conservation
Authors: Zerbe Stefan
Published: May 2006

Abstract. Since the introduction of ‘potential natural vegetation’ (PNV) as a concept in vegetation science by Tüxen (1956), many PNV‐maps with different scales have been made. Tüxen emphasized the great value of PNV‐maps for different purposes in land use, landscape planning and nature conservation, in particular with regard to forestry, agriculture and landscape management. Different aspects are discussed in order to examine the validity and applicability of PNV‐maps in landscape planning and nature conservation. PNV‐maps are useful for the differentiation of natural and landscape units on a small scale (< 1 : 100 000). However, maps of the potential natural vegetation are less useful for purposes of detailed planning on larger scales (> 1 : 100 000). Problems arise, for example, from the often highly hypothetical character of the construction and the practice of taking remnants of ‘natural’ vegetation as a reference object for the PNV. With regard to the goals of modern landscape planning and nature conservation purposes (e.g. conserving biodiversity in the cultural landscape of Central Europe) the exact documentation of the actual real vegetation (ARV) on intermediate and large scales gives much more detailed information than a hypothetical PNV.