bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Technology Integration Framework for Fast and Low Cost Handovers—Case Study: WiFi-WiMAX Network
Authors: Kassab Mohamed , Bonnin Jean-Marie , Belghith Abdelfettah
Published: June 2010

The Next Generation Wireless Networks (NGWNs) are seemed to be heterogeneous networks based on the integration of several wireless technologies. These networks are required to achieve performances equivalent to classic wireless networks by ensuring the continuity of communications and the homogeneity of network management during horizontal and vertical handovers. This task is even more important when management services, like security and quality of service (QoS), are deployed at access technology level. In this paper, we propose a framework for heterogeneous wireless technology integration based on network architecture skeleton and a handover management mechanism. This framework optimizes the layer-2 handover procedure to achieve performances required by sensitive applications while ensuring the minimization of signaling overhead required for operated networks. As an application example, we make use of this framework to propose a heterogeneous network based on WiFi and WiMAX technologies. We present an application example of the framework using the specification of a WiFi-WiMAX network. We propose several performance evaluations based on simulation tests based on this application. The latter confirm the efficiency of handover delay optimization and the minimization of management signaling costs.
Therapeutic Cancer Vaccines in Combination with Conventional Therapy
Authors: Andersen Mads Hald , Junker Niels , Ellebaek Eva , Svane Inge Marie , thor Straten Per
Published: June 2010

The clinical efficacy of most therapeutic vaccines against cancer has not yet met its promise. Data are emerging that strongly support the notion that combining immunotherapy with conventional therapies, for example, radiation and chemotherapy may improve efficacy. In particular combination with chemotherapy may lead to improved clinical efficacy by clearing suppressor cells, reboot of the immune system, by rendering tumor cells more susceptible to immune mediated killing, or by activation of cells of the immune system. In addition, a range of tumor antigens have been characterized to allow targeting of proteins coupled to intrinsic properties of cancer cells. For example, proteins associated with drug resistance can be targeted, and form ideal target structures for use in combination with chemotherapy for killing of surviving drug resistant cancer cells. Proteins associated with the malignant phenotype can be targeted to specifically target cancer cells, but proteins targeted by immunotherapy may also simultaneously target cancer cells as well as suppressive cells in the tumor stroma.
Study of the Electrophysical Properties of Composite Varistors Based on Zinc Oxide and Polymer (Polyaniline)
Authors: Mohammadi Aref Sajedeh , Bidadi Hassan , Hasanli Shamestan
Published: June 2010

In this experimental work, current-voltage characteristics of composite varisrors prepared on the base of zinc oxide with different weight percentages of polyaniline and temperature dependence of the samples characteristics have been studied. The activation energy of donor levels as well as the existence of hysteresis loop has been investigated. The comparison of experimental results shows that by increasing the polymer percentage in the varistor structure as long as the nonlinear behavior is conserved, the threshold voltage increases. This comparison also indicates that increasing the polymer content in the varistor structure causes the temperature dependence of threshold voltage to decrease. It is also concluded that, by the increase of polymer content in the varistor structure, the activation energy of donor levels and the hysteresis value are increased.
Styrylpyrylium Salts: and NMR High-Resolution Spectroscopy (1D and 2D)
Authors: Ouédraogo Jean Claude W. , Tapsoba Edouard , Sib Sié Faustin , Bonzi-Coulibaly Yvonne Libona
Published: June 2010

and NMR high-resolution spectroscopy (1D and 2D) (, -COSY, HSQC, HMBC) for four styrylpyrylium perchlorates were carried out and signal attributions are reported. Chemical shifts observed on NMR spectra for the styrylpyrylium salts were compared with net atomic charge for carbon obtained by AM1 semiempirical calculations. The position of the styryl group present low effect on chemical shifts for carbon atoms, while the presence of methyl group led to the unshielding of the substituted carbon.
Cytokines and Chemokines in Neuropsychiatric Syndromes of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Okamoto Hiroshi , Kobayashi Akiko , Yamanaka Hisashi
Published: June 2010

Neuropsychiatric syndromes of systemic lupus erythematosus (NPSLE) is a life-threatening disorder and early diagnosis and proper treatment are critical in the management of this neuropsychiatric manifestations in lupus. Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), electroencephalogram (EEG), neuropsychological tests, and lumbar puncture are clinical used for the diagnosis of NPSLE. In addition to these tests, cytokine and chemokine levels in CSF have been reported as useful diagnostic marker of NPSLE. Based on the number of recently published studies, this review overviewed the roles of cytokines and chemokines in NPSLE.
Production of Pectate Lyase byPenicillium viridicatum RFC3in Solid-State and Submerged Fermentation
Authors: Ferreira Viviani , da Silva Roberto , Silva Dênis , Gomes Eleni
Published: June 2010

Pectate lyase (PL) was produced by the filamentous fungusPenicillium viridicatumRFC3 in solid-state cultures of a mixture of orange bagasse and wheat bran (1 : 1 w/w), or orange bagasse, wheat bran and sugarcane bagasse (1 : 1 : 0.5 w/w), and in a submerged liquid culture with orange bagasse and wheat bran (3%) as the carbon source. PL production was highest (1,500 U mL−1or 300 Ug−1of substrate) in solid-state fermentation (SSF) on wheat bran and orange bagasse at 96 hours. PL production in submerged fermentation (SmF) was influenced by the initial pH of the medium. With the initial pH adjusted to 4.5, 5.0, and 5.5, the peak activity was observed after 72, 48, and 24 hours of fermentation, respectively, when the pH of the medium reached the value 5.0. PL from SSF and SmF were loaded on Sephadex-G75 columns and six activity peaks were obtained from crude enzyme from SSF and designated PL I, II, III, IV, V, and VI, while five peaks were obtained from crude enzyme from SmF and labeledPL  I′,II′,III′,IV′, andVII′. Crude enzyme and fraction III from each fermentative process were tested further. The optimum pH for crude PL from either process was 5.5, while that for PL III was 8.0. The maximum activity of enzymes from SSF was observed at35∘C, but crude enzyme was more thermotolerant than PL III, maintaining its maximum activity up to45∘C. Crude enzyme from SmF and PL  III′showed thermophilic profiles of activity, with maximum activity at 60 and55∘C, respectively. In the absence of substrate, the crude enzyme from SSF was stable over the pH range 3.0–10.0 and PL III was most stable in the pH range 4.0–7.0. Crude enzyme from SmF retained 70%–80% of its maximum activity in the acid-neutral pH range (4.0–7.0), but PIII showed high stability at alkaline pH (7.5–9.5). PL from SSF was more thermolabile than that from SmF. The latter maintained 60% of its initial activity after 1 h at55∘C. The differing behavior of the enzymes with respect to pH and temperature suggests that they are different isozymes.
Interleukin-21: A New Mediator of Inflammation in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Sarra Massimiliano , Monteleone Giovanni
Published: June 2010

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disorder characterized by excessive production of a variety of autoantibodies and a wide range of clinical manifestations. Pathogenesis of SLE is complex and not fully understood. There is however evidence that B and T cells are critical to the development of disease, and that T cell-derived cytokines are involved in the SLE-associated inflammatory response. One such cytokine seems to be interleukin (IL)-21, the latest identified member of the -chain-related cytokine family. IL-21 has an important role in the control of the growth, survival, differentiation, and function of both T and B cells, and excessive production of IL-21 has been associated with the development of multiple immune-mediated diseases. Here we review data supporting the involvement of IL-21 in the pathogenesis of SLE.
Optimal Control with Partial Information for Stochastic Volterra Equations
Authors: øksendal Bernt , Zhang Tusheng
Published: June 2010

In the first part of the paper we obtain existence and characterizations of an optimal control for a linear quadratic control problem of linear stochastic Volterra equations. In the second part, using the Malliavin calculus approach, we deduce a general maximum principle for optimal control of general stochastic Volterra equations. The result is applied to solve some stochastic control problem for some stochastic delay equations.
Reconstruct the Mesoscale Information of Typhoon with BDA Method Combined with AMSU‐A Data Assimilation Method
Authors: Wang Yunfeng , Zhang Haiyang , Wang Bin , Han Yueqi , Cheng Xiaoping
Published: June 2010

This paper conducts the assimilating experiments and simulating experiments on typhoon “Aere” (No. 0418), by use of bogus data assimilation (BDA) method combined with advanced microwave sounding unit‐A (AMSU‐A) data assimilation method in the fifth‐generation National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR)/Penn State Mesoscale Model Version‐3 (MM5V3), the Radiative Transfer for TIROS‐N Operational Vertical Sounder Version‐7 (RTTOV) model, and their adjoint models. The Bogus data constructed with BDA technique are mainly located at sea level, while the peak energy contribution levels of the sounder channels selected in AMSU‐A data assimilation technique are mainly located at upper troposphere. The two types of data can reconstruct the meso‐scale information and improve the typhoon initial fields under the model dynamic forcing effect, respectively from the low level and the upper level of atmosphere during the assimilating process. Numerical results show that with four‐dimensional variational data assimilation (4DVAR) technique the circulation of initial fields is improved, the “warm core” of typhoon is enhanced, the “cloud water” phenomenon that occurs in the optimal initial fields and the numerical model is changed into “warm start” from “cold start”.
Icelandic Birch Polyploids—The Case of a Perfect Fit in Genome Size
Authors: Anamthawat-Jónsson K. , Thórsson Æ. Th. , Temsch E. M. , Greilhuber J.
Published: June 2010

Two birch species coexist in Iceland, dwarf birch Betula nana and tree birch B. pubescens. Both species are variable morphologically, which has been shown to be due to introgressive hybridization via interspecific hybrids. The aim of this study was to examine if the introgression could be related to genome size. We characterized 42 plants from Bifröst woodland morphologically and cytogenetically. The population consisted of diploid B. nana (38%), tetraploid B. pubescens (55%), and triploid hybrids (7%). Genome size was measured from 12 plants, using Feulgen DNA image densitometry (FDM) on spring leaf buds and flow cytometry (FCM) with dormant winter twigs. The use of winter twigs for FCM is novel. The average 1C-values for diploid, triploid, and tetraploid plants were 448, 666, and 882 Mbp, respectively. Monoploid genome sizes were found to be statistically constant among ploidy levels. This stability is in contrast to the different taxonomic positions of the di- and tetraploids and also contrasts with the frequent occurrence of genome downsizing in polyploids.
High-Input Impedance Voltage-Mode Multifunction Filter with Four Grounded Components and Only Two Plus-Type DDCCs
Authors: Chen Hua-Pin
Published: June 2010

This paper introduces a novel voltage-mode multifunction biquadratic filter with single input and four outputs using two plus-type differential difference current conveyors (DDCCs) and four grounded passive components. The filter can realize inverting highpass, inverting bandpass, noninverting lowpass, and noninverting bandpass filter responses, simultaneously. It still maintains the following advantages: (i) using grounded capacitors attractive for integration and absorbing shunt parasitic capacitance, (ii) using grounded resistors at allXterminals of DDCCs suitable for the variations of filter parameters and absorbing series parasitic resistances at allXterminals of DDCCs, (iii) high-input impedance good for cascadability, (iv) no need to change the filter topology, (v) no need to component-matching conditions, (vi) low active and passive sensitivity performances, and (vii) simpler configuration due to the use of plus-type DDCCs only. HSPICE and MATLAB simulations results are provided to demonstrate the theoretical analysis.
Novel Roles of the Picornaviral 3D Polymerase in Viral Pathogenesis
Authors: Kerkvliet Jason , Edukulla Ramakrishna , Rodriguez Moses
Published: June 2010

The RNA-dependent RNA-polymerase,3Dpol, is an essential component in the picornavirus genome for the replication of single stranded RNA. However, transgenic expression of3Dpolin mice has antiviral effects. Here, we discuss the structure and function of3Dpolduring picornavirus replication, we review the evidence and consequence of a host immune response to epitopes in3Dpolafter picornavirus infection, highlight data showing the antiviral effects of transgenic3Dpolfrom Theiler's murine encephalomyelitis virus (TMEV), and discuss potential mechanisms by which3Dpolis causing this antiviral effect in mice.
Electrochemical Performances of Electroactive Nano-LayeredOrganic-Inorganic Perovskite Containing Trivalent Iron Ion and its Use for a DNA Biosensor Preparation
Authors: Wu Jing , Liu Hanxing , Lin Zhidong , Cao Minghe
Published: June 2010

A steady nano organic-inorganic perovskite hybrid with[H23-AMP]3/2Fe(CN)6(3-AMP = 3-methylaminopyridine) was prepared in the air. The structure is an unusual layered organic-inorganic type. The resulting hybrid enveloped in paraffin to prepare[H23-AMP]3/2Fe(CN)6paste electrode (HPE) shows good electrochemical activity and a couple of oxidation and reduction peaks with potential of cyclic voltammometry (CV) at around 440 mV and 30 mV. Compared with that on CPE, oxidation potential ofFe(CN)63-on HPE shifts negatively 259.7 mV and that of reduction shifts positively 338.7 mV, which exhibits that[H23-AMP]3/2Fe(CN)6can accelerate the electron-transfer to improve the electrochemical reaction reversibility. Such characteristics of[H23-AMP]3/2Fe(CN)6have been employed to prepare the DNA biosensor. The single-strand DNA (ssDNA) and double-strand DNA (dsDNA) immobilized on HPE, respectively, can improve the square wave voltammometry (SWV) current and SWV potential shifts positively. The effect of pH was evaluated. And there is hybridization peak on SWV curve using HPE immobilized ssDNA in the complementary ssDNA solution. And HPE immobilized ssDNA can be utilized to monitor the DNA hybridization and detect complementary ssDNA, covering range from3.24×10−7to6.72×10−5 g/mL with detection limit of1.57×10−7 g/mL. The DNA biosensor exhibits a good stability and reproducibility.
Using Exploratory Focus Groups to Inform the Development of Targeted COPD Self-Management Education DVDs for Rural Patients
Authors: Stellefson Michael , Chaney Beth H. , Chaney J. Don
Published: June 2010

This exploratory study assessed the self-management learning needs, experiences, and perspectives of COPD patients treated at a Certified Federal Rural Health Clinic to inform the development of a COPD self-management DVD. A purposive, homogeneous sample of COPD patients participated in focus group interviews. Data from these interviews were referenced to edit a library of Rvision COPD self-management DVDs into a single condensed DVD containing only the most pertinent self-management topics. Patients reported a lack of knowledge and skill development related to purse lipped breathing, controlled coughing, and stress management; while medication management skills were found to be quite adequate. Engaging rural communities in formal qualitative inquiries to describe COPD specific needs for self-management may lead to future use of educational technologies aimed at improving quality of life for these rural, hard to reach populations.
Stability of Nonlinear Autonomous Quadratic Discrete Systems in the Critical Case
Authors: Diblík Josef , Khusainov Denys Ya. , Grytsay Irina V. , Šmarda Zdenĕk
Published: June 2010

Many processes are mathematically simulated by systems of discrete equations with quadratic
right‐hand sides. Their stability is thought of as a very important characterization of the process. In this paper, the method of Lyapunov functions is used to derive classes of stable quadratic discrete autonomous systems in a critical case in the presence of a simple eigenvalue λ = 1 of the matrix of linear terms. In addition to the stability investigation, we
also estimate stability domains.
Cancer Malignancy Is Enhanced by Glyceraldehyde-Derived Advanced Glycation End-Products
Authors: Takino Jun-Ichi , Yamagishi Sho-Ichi , Takeuchi Masayoshi
Published: June 2010

The receptor for advanced glycation end-products (RAGEs) is associated with the malignancy of cancer. A recent study has suggested that glyceraldehyde-derived AGEs (Glycer-AGEs) enhanced the malignancy of melanoma cells, but glucose-derived AGEs did not. However, the effects of Glycer-AGEs on other cancer cells remain poorly understood, and the molecular mechanisms behind the above-mentioned effect have not been clarified. The present paper aimed to examine the effect of Glycer-AGEs on cultured lung cancer A549 cells. RAGE was expressed in A549 cells. Glycer-AGEs significantly attenuated cell proliferation. Furthermore, Glycer-AGEs enhanced the migration capacity of the cells by activating Rac1viaROS and also increased their invasion capacity. We demonstrated that Glycer-AGEs enhanced the migration and invasion of A549 cells rather than their proliferation. These results suggest that Glycer-AGEs play a critical role in the malignancy of cancer rather than its proliferation and are potential targets for therapeutic intervention.
Loop Electrosurgical Excisional Procedure (LEEP) Done for Discrepancy: Does the Time from HGSIL Affect Pathologic Grade of CIN in LEEP Specimen?
Authors: Moreni Sue L. , Mitchell Caroline M. , Garcia Rochelle L. , Eckert Linda O.
Published: June 2010

Objective. When pathologic discrepancy arises between high‐grade cytology on Papanicolaou (Pap) smear and low‐grade histology on cervical biopsy, Loop Electrosurgical Excisional Procedure (LEEP) is one management alternative. Our objective was to determine whether the time from initial HGSIL Pap to LEEP affects the pathologic grade of the LEEP specimen. Study Design. We performed a retrospective case‐control study identifying LEEPs performed for discrepancy over a 10‐year period (1997–2007). 121 subjects were separated into two groups based on LEEP pathology (≤CIN 1 and CIN 2,3) and compared using χ2. Results. Of the 121 LEEP specimens, 67 (55.4%) had CIN 2,3. CIN 2,3 was more often discovered when LEEP was performed within 3 months of the HGSIL Pap smear versus after 5 months (55.2% versus 16.4%, P = .096). Conclusion. Women undergoing LEEP for discrepancy >5 months from their HGSIL Pap demonstrated a trend toward less CIN 2,3 on LEEP pathology.
Dynamic Time Warping Distance Method for Similarity Test of Multipoint Ground Motion Field
Authors: Li Yingmin , Chen Huiguo , Wu Zheqian
Published: June 2010

The reasonability of artificial multi‐point ground motions and the identification of abnormal records in seismic array observations, are two important issues in application and analysis of multi‐point ground motion fields. Based on the dynamic time warping (DTW) distance method, this paper discusses the application of similarity measurement in the similarity analysis of simulated multi‐point ground motions and the actual seismic array records. Analysis results show that the DTW distance method not only can quantitatively reflect the similarity of simulated ground motion field, but also offers advantages in clustering analysis and singularity recognition of actual multi‐point ground motion field.
Expression and Purification of Z Protein from Junín Virus
Authors: Goñi S. E. , Borio C. S. , Romano F. B. , Rota R. P. , Pilloff M. G. , Iserte J. A. , Tortorici M. A. , Stephan B. I. , Bilen M. F. , Ghiringhelli P. D. , Lozano M. E.
Published: June 2010

Arenaviridae comprises 23 recognized virus species with a bipartite ssRNA genome and an ambisense coding strategy. The virions are enveloped and include nonequimolar amounts of each genomic RNA species, designated L and S, coding for four ORFs (N, GPC, L, and Z). The arenavirus Junín (JUNV) is the etiological agent of Argentine Hemorrhagic Fever, an acute disease with high mortality rate. It has been proposed that Z is the functional counterpart of the matrix proteins found in other negative-stranded enveloped RNA viruses. Here we report the optimized expression of a synthetic gene of Z protein, using three expression systems (two bacterial and a baculoviral one). One of these recombinant proteins was used to generate antibodies. A bioinformatic analysis was made where Z was subdivided into three domains. The data presented contributes methodologies for Z recombinant production and provides the basis for the development of new experiments to test its function.
Investigation of Balance Function Using Dynamic Posturography under Electrical-Acoustic Stimulation in Cochlear Implant Recipients
Authors: Schwab B. , Durisin M. , Kontorinis G.
Published: June 2010

Introduction. The purpose of the present study is to investigate the effect of electrical-acoustic stimulation on vestibular function in CI patients by using the EquiTest and to help answer the question of whether electrically stimulating the inner ear using a cochlear implant influences the balance system in any way.Material and Methods. A test population () was selected at random from among the cochlear implant recipients. Dynamic posturography (using the EquiTest) was performed with the device switched off an switched on.Results. In summary, it can be said that an activated cochlear implant affects the function of the vestibular system and may, to an extent, even lead to a stabilization of balance function under the static conditions of dynamic posturography, but nevertheless also to a significant destabilization. Significant improvements in vestibular function were seen mainly in equilibrium scores under conditions 4 and 5, the composite equilibrium score, and the vestibular components as revealed by sensory analysis.Conclusions. Only under the static conditions are significantly poorer scores achieved when stimulation is applied. It may be that the explanation for any symptoms of dizziness lies precisely in the fact that they occur in supposedly noncritical situations, since, when the cochlear implant makes increased demands on the balance system, induced disturbances can be centrally suppressed.
Rationale and Design of the POSTEMI (Postconditioning in ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction) Study
Authors: Limalanathan Shanmuganathan , Andersen Geir Øystein , Hoffmann Pavel , Kløw Nils-Einar , Abdelnoor Michael , Eritsland Jan
Published: June 2010

Rapid reperfusion of the infarct-related coronary artery is essential in the treatment of acute ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Paradoxically, restoration of the blood flow to the ischemic area may result in further injury to the myocardium. This phenomenon is described as ‘ischemia/reperfusion injury’ and the pathophysiological mechanisms are not fully elucidated. A cardioprotective effect of ischemic postconditioning (short repetitive cycles of reperfusion and re-occlusion) has been demonstrated in experimental studies and in pilot studies on patients with acute STEMI treated with primary percutaneous coronary intervention. We present the study design of the Postconditioning in ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction (POSTEMI) study, which is a prospective, randomized, open-label clinical trial with blinded endpoint evaluation designed to evaluate the effect of postconditioning on final infarct size. Patients with acute STEMI with symptoms of less than 6 h and proximal or mid-coronary artery occlusion will be included. The primary endpoint is infarct size, assessed by cardiac MRI after 4 months. The secondary endpoints are to evaluate the effect of postconditioning on TIMI myocardial perfusion grade, resolution of ST-segment elevation, release of markers of ischemia, left ventricular function and final infarct size related to the area at risk. A total of 260 patients will be included in the study.
The Second–Generation Global Forecast System at the Central Weather Bureau in Taiwan
Authors: Liou Chi–Sann , Chen Jen–Her , Terng Chuen–Teyr , Wang Feng–Ju , Fong Chin–Tzu , Rosmond Thomas E. , Kuo Hong–Chi , Shiao Chih–Hui , Cheng Ming–Dean
Published: June 2010

The global forecast system (GFS), which started its operation in 1988 at the Central Weather Bureau in Taiwan, has been upgraded to incorporate better numerical methods and more complete parameterization schemes. The second-generation GFS uses multivariate optimum interpolation analysis and incremental nonlinear normal-mode initialization to initialize the forecast model. The forecast model is a global primitive equation model with a resolution of 18 sigma levels in the vertical and 79 waves of triangular truncation in the horizontal. The forecast model includes a 1.5-order eddy mixing parameterization, a gravity wave drag parameterization, a shallow convection parameterization, a relaxed version of Arakawa–Schubert cumulus parameterization, grid-scale condensation calculation, and longwave and shortwave radiative transfer calculations with consideration of fractional clouds. The performance of the second-generation GFS is significantly better than the first-generation GFS. For two 3-month periods in winter 1995/96 and summer 1996, the second-generation GFS provided forecasters with 5-day forecasts where the averaged 500-mb height anomaly correlation coefficients for the Northern Hemisphere were greater than 0.6.

Observational data available to the GFS are much less than those at other numerical weather prediction centers, especially in the Tropics and Southern Hemisphere. The GRID messages of 5° resolution, ECMWF 24-h forecast 500-mb height and 850- and 200-mb wind fields available once a day on the Global Telecommunications System are used as supplemental observations to increase the data coverage for the GFS data assimilation. The supplemental data improve the GFS performance both in the analysis and forecast.
Assessment of Fitts’ Law for Quantifying Combined Rotational and Translational Movements
Authors: Stoelen Martin F. , Akin David L.
Published: June 2010

Objective: To develop a model for human performance in combined translational and rotational movements based on Fitts’ law. Background: Fitts’ law has been successfully applied to translational movements in the past, providing generalization beyond a specific task as well as performance predictions. For movements involving both translations and rotations, no equivalent theory exists, making comparisons of input devices for these movements more ambiguous. Method: The study consisted of three experiments. In the first two, participants performed either pure translational or pure rotational movements of 1 degree of freedom. The third experiment involved the same movements combined. Results: On average, the performance times for combined movements were equal to the sum of the times for equivalent separate rotational and translational movements. A simple Fitts’ law equivalent for combined movements with a similar slope as the separate components was proposed. In addition, a significant degree of coordination of the combined movements was found. This had a strong bias toward a parallel execution in 12 out of 13 participants. Conclusion: Combined movements with rotations and translations of 1 degree of freedom can be approximated using a simple Fitts’ law equivalent. The rotational and translational components appear to be coordinated by the central nervous system to generate a parallel execution. Application: The results may help drive human interface designs and provide insights into the coordination of combined movements. Future extensions may be possible for the movements of higher degrees of freedom used in robot teleoperation and virtual reality applications.
Auditory Displays as Occasion Setters
Authors: McKeown Denis , Isherwood Sarah , Conway Gareth
Published: June 2010

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate whether representational sounds that capture the richness of experience of a collision enhance performance in braking to avoid a collision relative to other forms of warnings in a driving simulator. Background: There is increasing interest in auditory warnings that are informative about their referents. But as well as providing information about some intended object, warnings may be designed to set the occasion for a rich body of information about the outcomes of behavior in a particular context. These richly informative warnings may offer performance advantages, as they may be rapidly processed by users. Method: An auditory occasion setter for a collision (a recording of screeching brakes indicating imminent collision) was compared with two other auditory warnings (an abstract and an “environmental” sound), a speech message, a visual display, and no warning in a fixed-base driving simulator as interfaces to a collision avoidance system. The main measure was braking response times at each of two headways (1.5 s and 3 s) to a lead vehicle. Results: The occasion setter demonstrated statistically significantly faster braking responses at each headway in 8 out of 10 comparisons (with braking responses equally fast to the abstract warning at 1.5 s and the environmental warning at 3 s). Conclusion: Auditory displays that set the occasion for an outcome in a particular setting and for particular behaviors may offer small but critical performance enhancements in time-critical applications. Application: The occasion setter could be applied in settings where speed of response by users is of the essence.
Assessment of Structural Knowledge as a Training Outcome in Process Control Environments
Authors: Burkolter Dina , Meyer Bertolt , Kluge Annette , Sauer Jürgen
Published: June 2010

Objective: The objective of the present studies was to apply a novel method for structural knowledge assessment to process control to assess the potential of its measures as a training outcome. Background: Traditionally, knowledge is assessed by verbal achievement tests on the subject matter. However, traditional methods are regarded as limited in their ability to assess higher-order learning or understanding. Method: Two experiments (Experiment 1, N = 41; Experiment 2, N = 50) were conducted in which participants were given a 4-hr training session on a simulated process control task. At a later testing session, participants worked on the task for 70 min and completed knowledge tests on declarative, procedural, and structural knowledge. Structural knowledge was measured with the computer-based Association Structure Test (AST), which combines an association task and Pathfinder network on the basis of relatedness ratings. Results: In both studies, structural knowledge was significantly related to diagnostic performance, and evidence was found for internal consistency as well as convergent and predictive validity. Conclusion: Findings indicate that structural assessment with the AST shows promise as a training outcome in process control. Application: Potential applications of this research include the improvement of training design, delivery, and evaluation.
Frustration-based outcomes of entitlement and the influence of supervisor communication
Authors: Harvey Paul , Harris Kenneth J
Published: June 2010

Psychological entitlement is a relatively stable tendency toward inflated self-perceptions and unrealistic expectations concerning praise and rewards. This study investigates two behavioral outcomes of entitlement — political behavior and co-worker abuse — and the mediating role of job-related frustration. We also examine the impact of supervisor communication (i.e. evaluative and informative communication) on the relationship between psychological entitlement and frustration. Results of a study of 223 employees suggested that entitlement was positively associated with both political behavior and co-worker abuse, and that frustration partially or fully mediated both relationships. Additionally, results suggested that relatively high levels of supervisor communication reduced job frustration for less-entitled employees but exacerbated the frustration reported by those with stronger entitlement perceptions.
Housing and Location Choices of Retiring Households: Evidence from France
Authors: Gobillon Laurent , Wolff François-Charles
Published: June 2010

In this paper, a study is made of the mobility and housing choices of the elderly when retiring, using household data collected in France. From a theoretical viewpoint, individuals are likely to decrease their housing quantity because of an income loss when retiring, but they may also increase it to benefit from more housing comfort for leisure. Using the 1992 Trois Générations survey, it is first shown that housing mobility at retirement is substantial in France, with a variety of self-reported motives. Then, using the 1994—2001 French Europanel survey, evidence is found of both upsizing and downsizing for mobile recent retirees. In many cases, housing adjustments lead to a correction of the initial disequilibrium between the number of rooms and the number of occupants. However, a significant proportion of mobile recent retirees improve the quality of their dwelling.
Squatting in Camps
Authors: Sanyal Romola
Published: June 2010

Refugee camps are cast as spaces of exception where the body of the refugee is reduced to bare life. Camps exist at the intersections of multiple layers of governance and legality and remain in a liminal state for generations. The focus on them as spaces of humanitarian intervention often renders them voiceless. Yet, refugees have agency—as is evident through a study of their built environments. The development of refugee camps shows the ways in which identity, politics and construction are intertwined. The process of squatting, largely seen as a technique of the urban poor to address their housing needs, can also be recast in the camps. Here, squatting not only produces shelter but is also an act of rebellion. This article will interrogate the Palestinian refugee camps of Beirut to show how squatting in camps is an attempt at constructing a nationalist identity through an act of insurgent nationalism.
Health Insurance Status and Control of Diabetes and Coronary Artery Disease Risk Factors on Enrollment Into the Bypass Angioplasty Revascularization Investigation 2 Diabetes (BARI 2D) Trial
Authors: Grogan Mary , Jenkins Margaret , Sansing Veronica V. , MacGregor Joan , Mori Brooks Maria , Julien-Williams Patricia , Amendola Angela , Dawn Abbott J. ,   BARI 2D Study Group
Published: June 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to examine measures of chronic disease severity and treatment according to insurance status in a clinical trial setting.

Methods

Baseline insurance status of 776 patients with type 2 diabetes and stable coronary artery disease (CAD) enrolled in the United States in the Bypass Angioplasty Revascularization Investigation 2 Diabetes (BARI 2D) trial was analyzed with regard to measures of metabolic and cardiovascular risk factor control.

Results

Compared with patients with private or public insurance, the uninsured were younger, more often female, and less often white non-Hispanic. Uninsured patients had the greatest burden of CAD. Patients with public insurance were treated with the greatest number of medications, had the greatest self-reported functional status, and the lowest mean glycosylated hemoglobin and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol values. Overall, for 5 measured risk factor targets, the mean number above goal was 2.49 ± 1.18. After adjustment for demographic and clinical variables, insurance status was not associated with a difference in risk factor control.

Conclusions

In the BARI 2D trial, we did not observe a difference in baseline cardiovascular risk factor control according to insurance status. An important observation, however, was that risk factor control overall was suboptimal, which highlights the difficulty in treating type 2 diabetes and CAD irrespective of insurance status.
Creative professional users’ musical relevance criteria
Authors: Inskip Charlie , MacFarlane Andy , Rafferty Pauline
Published: June 2010

Although known item searching for music can be dealt with by searching metadata using existing text search techniques, human subjectivity and variability within the music itself make it very difficult to search for unknown items. This paper examines these problems within the context of text retrieval and music information retrieval. The focus is on ascertaining a relationship between music relevance criteria and those relating to relevance judgements in text retrieval. A data-rich collection of relevance judgements by creative professionals searching for unknown musical items to accompany moving images using real world queries is analysed. The participants in our observations are found to take a socio-cognitive approach and use a range of content- and context-based criteria. These criteria correlate strongly with those arising from previous text retrieval studies despite the many differences between music and text in their actual content.
Using MRI to measure drug action: caveats and new directions
Authors: Murphy Susannah E , Mackay Clare E
Published: June 2010

Investigating pharmacological modulation of brain activity using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) presents an exciting opportunity to bridge the gap between preclinical and clinical studies, and holds the potential to be a useful tool in the discovery and development of novel therapeutic agents. Most functional MRI studies to date have utilized the blood oxygen level dependent (BOLD) contrast mechanism. Although this has some advantages over other techniques and is widely available, BOLD has two significant limitations for the study of drug effects; it is an indirect measurement of neuronal function, and produces only a relative (non-quantitative) measure of blood dynamics. Here we describe the various experimental manipulations that have been used to reduce the impact of these limitations, and discuss new ways of collecting and analysing imaging data that allow us to assess functional connectivity of the brain. We recommend some complementary techniques (such as arterial spin labelling and magnetoencephalography) that, if used in conjunction with BOLD functional MRI, will increase the interpretability and thus the utility of MRI for pharmacology research.
Examining the Relation Between Ethical Focus and Financial Performance in Family Firms: An Exploratory Study
Authors: O'Boyle Ernest H. , Rutherford Matthew W. , Pollack Jeffrey M.
Published: June 2010

Empirically, the confluence of family involvement, ethics, and performance is a sparse research area. The authors explore a rich theoretical framework relating family involvement, ethical focus, and firm performance and empirically test a mediated model using a sample of 526 family businesses. The results illustrated that a firm’s ethical focus mediated the relation between family involvement and financial performance. Specifically, data supported the relation between family involvement and a firm’s ethical focus. And increased ethical focus predicted increased financial performance. The authors discuss the implications of these findings and offer potential areas for future research in family business studies.
Women in Medicine
Authors: Sood Mamta , Chadda R.K.
Published: June 2010

In the last few decades, the number of women joining medicine has shown a marked increase all over the world. In India, similar trends are observed though exact data on a nationwide basis is not available, but most women doctors tend to join the disciplines that are less demanding. Concerns about the paucity of research in this area are high-lighted in this note.
Making India’s Labour Markets Inclusive
Authors: Sabharwal Manish , Reddy Kavitha
Published: June 2010

Growth is a necessary but not sufficient condition for poverty reduction. Reforming our education, employability and employment ecosystem is key to making progress. This article makes the case that India’s next wave of poverty reduction will come from accelerating India’s four labour market transitions; farm to non-farm, rural to urban, unorganised to organised and subsistence self-employment to decent wage employment. Not everybody agrees; people believe that urbanisation is a curse, farms provide a happy and contended existence, entrepreneurship is a solution to unemployment and the unorganised sector is a highly flexible response to India’s governance deficit. We disagree.

We believe that the biggest lesson of India’s economic reforms is that growth is a necessary but not sufficient condition for poverty reduction. Poverty reduction needs access. Most Indians are unable to escape their financial, geographic or social opening balance (the Ovarian lottery) because our non-inclusive labour markets and human capital ecosystem do not provide access.

Policy must accelerate these four labour market transitions because these are journeys to a better life for most Indians. Access is India’s unfinished agenda and the 3E focus (employment, employability and education) may be the most sustainable vehicles for creating access.

Unfortunately, the global financial crisis is shifting the reform debate back to the dated fundamentalism around the private versus public sector. Reforms are about making our labour markets, economy and country more inclusive. They are about creating equality of opportunity and not equality of outcomes. They are about helping people escape their losing tickets in the Ovarian lottery.
Labour Market Rigidities in India
Authors: Khan Amir Ullah
Published: June 2010

Labour market efficiency is often a function of the degree to which labour is mobile and the market flexible. In India labour markets are integrated but continue to be rigid on account of the legal system that has traditionally viewed labour markets as skewed in favour of employers. Labour dispute resolution, trade union laws, minimum wage stipulations and other laws have ensured that labour often is over protected. This article looks at how existing labour law plays its part in making labour markets less than efficient.
The cosmopolitan—local continuum in cross-national perspective
Authors: Haller William , Roudometof Victor
Published: June 2010

This article examines whether the cosmopolitan—local continuum is present among advanced industrialized world regions. Strictly comparable factor analyses show that its nation-based and place-based variants are observable across world regions. Results indicate that, from 1995 to 2003 among the regions analyzed, place-based localism is declining everywhere. This finding suggests that globalization’s effects on personal lives are consequential in terms of decreasing people’s attachments to their traditional locales. From 1995 to 2003 nation-based localism has been increasing in most world regions. This finding suggests that nation-based localism — often under the guise of revamped nationalism — is a reaction to globalization’s effects on personal lives. But unlike the citizens of other advanced industrialized countries, Europeans have been reducing their own attachment to national societies.
Selenium or No Selenium- That Is the Question in Tumor Patients: A New Controversy
Authors: Muecke Ralph , Schomburg Lutz , Buentzel Jens , Kisters Klaus , Micke Oliver ,   German Working Group Trace Elements and Electrolytes in Oncology-AKTE
Published: June 2010

The essential trace element selenium, which is a crucial cofactor in the most important endogenous antioxidative systems of the human body, is attracting more attention from both laypersons and expert groups. The interest of oncologists mainly focuses on the following clinical aspects: protection of normal tissues, sensitizing in malignant tumors, antiedematous effect, prognostic impact of selenium, and effects in primary and secondary cancer prevention. Selenium is a constituent of the small group of selenocysteine-containing selenoproteins and elicits important structural and enzymatic functions. Selenium deficiency has been linked to increased infection risk and adverse mood states. It has been shown to possess cancer-preventive and cytoprotective activities in both animal models and humans. It is well established that it has a key role in redox regulation and antioxidant function, and hence in membrane integrity, energy metabolism, and protection against DNA damage. Recent clinical trials have shown the importance of selenium in clinical oncology. In 2009, a significant benefit of sodium selenite supplementation—with no protection of tumor cells, which is often suspected by oncologists— was shown in a prospective randomized trial in gynecologic cancer patients undergoing radiation therapy. More recently, concerns arose from 2 large clinical prevention trials (NPC, SELECT) that selenium may increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Despite obvious flaws in both studies and good counterarguments, controversy remains on the possible advantages and risks of selenium in cancer prevention. However, in the light of the recent clinical trials the potential benefits of selenium supplementation in tumor patients are becoming obvious, even though further research is needed.
How does socio economic position link to health behaviour? Sociological pathways and perspectives for health promotion
Authors: Weyers Simone , Dragano Nico , Richter Matthias , Bosma Hans
Published: June 2010

Socio economic inequalities in adult health behaviour are consistently observed. Despite a well-documented pattern, social determinants of variations in health behaviour have not been sufficiently clarified. This article therefore presents sociological pathways to explain the existing inequalities in health behaviour. At a micro level, control beliefs have been part of several behavioural theories. We suggest that these beliefs might bridge the gap between sociology and psychology by emphasising their roots in fundamental socio-economic environments. At a meso level, social networks and support have not been explicitly considered as behavioural determinants. This contribution states that these social factors influence health behaviour while being unequally distributed across society. At a macro level, characteristics of the neighbourhood environment influence health behaviour of its residents above and beyond their individual background. Providing further opportunity for policy makers, it is shown that peer and school context equalise inequalities in risky behaviour in adolescence. As a conclusion, factors such as control expectations, social networks, neighbourhood characteristics, and school context should be included as strategies to improve health behaviour in socially disadvantaged people.