bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
La flânerie : un moment de la fêlure et du mélange
Authors: Shin Ji Eun
Published: February 2009

Résumé Ce travail de recherche portant sur la problématique sociologique de l’identité, de l’errance, de l’hospitalité, examine les traits de l’anonymat et d’une insolite communicabilité, associée à la « fêlure » du sujet. Celle-ci est le moment de la démolition de soi ordinaire où le familier ou le rassurant se transforment en lointain, inquiétant, étrange. La fêlure de soi nous permet de nous approcher de l’étranger, de devenir un étranger. Étymologiquement, l’existence ( ex-sistence ), rappelle une sortie de soi, une fuite, un éclatement. Ainsi, le terme de fêlure peut se substituer à ceux de mouvement, coupure, départ, lointain, fuite, éclatement. Nous suggérons que la fêlure de soi mène également à la rencontre des autres, et enfin de soi-même. Conclusion : exister c’est sortir de soi, c’est s’ouvrir à l’autre.
Des maîtres nageurs à l'épreuve de la délégation de service public : rapports de force et de grandeur au travail
Authors: Richet Cédric , Soulé Bastien
Published: February 2009

Résumé Parler de corporation pour évoquer la profession de maître nageur s’apparente a priori à un lieu commun. Pourtant, cette qualification renvoie à une expérience bien concrète pour certains élus, cadres territoriaux ou gestionnaires privés en charge de concevoir et d’organiser le service public dans les piscines. La mise en œuvre d’une politique éducative, sportive et ludique autour des activités de natation peut effectivement être contrariée par la défense d’intérêts professionnels. Cet article propose une lecture des enjeux du métier de maître nageur à l’aune d’un cadre d’action particulièrement révélateur, notamment en raison des changements qu’il induit au travail : la délégation de service public. Une enquête qualitative réalisée au sein d’une société de gestion déléguée, basée sur la conduite d’entretiens semi-directifs auprès d’éducateurs spécialisés dans les activités aquatiques, a permis d’appréhender les rapports de force et les principes de justice à l’origine de critiques et conflits au travail. À travers des éléments d’analyse tels que le marché de l’emploi, les ressources organisationnelles, les statuts du contrat de délégation et des agents du service public, émerge de cette étude une lutte autour de la rémunération, des conditions de travail, de l’autorité et de la carrière que mènent ces professionnels.
Les frontières entre le sport et l'art à l'épreuve des écoles professionnelles de cirque
Authors: Salaméro Émilie , Haschar-Noé Nadine
Published: February 2009

Résumé À partir d’un travail de thèse sur la socialisation professionnelle des futurs artistes de « cirque contemporain », notre contribution montre, en prenant largement appui sur l’exemple type de l’École Nationale des Arts du Cirque de Rosny-sous-Bois, que les écoles professionnelles constituent des lieux de réinvestissement de dispositions sportives tant pour les formateurs, le plus souvent issus de la gymnastique sportive, que pour les apprentis artistes lors des processus de recrutement et du cursus de formation. De façon plus générale, et dans les six écoles étudiées, devenir artiste de « cirque contemporain » nécessite l’incorporation et l’accumulation de dispositions plurielles – sportives, artistiques et circassiennes – et hiérarchisées en fonction de la position de l’école dans l’espace de formation. Cette recherche questionne la façon dont les acteurs du « cirque contemporain », en empruntant à deux pratiques – le sport et l’art – socialement représentées comme antagonistes, mènent une entreprise de revalorisation et de légitimation du cirque sans pour autant résoudre les tensions liées à l’identification de la profession d’artiste de cirque.
Computer-based Role Playing Game Environment for Analogue Electronics
Authors: Graven Olaf Hallan , Samuelsen Dag , MacKinnon Lachlan M
Published: February 2009

An implementation of a design for a game based virtual learning environment is described. The game is developed for a course in analogue electronics, and the topic is the design of a power supply. This task can be solved in a number of different ways, with certain constraints, giving the students a certain amount of freedom, although the game is designed not to facilitate trial-and-error approach. The use of storytelling and a virtual gaming environment provides the student with the learning material in a MMORPG environment.
Design and Test of Application-Specific Integrated Circuits by use of Mobile Clients
Authors: Garbi Zutin Danilo , Auer Michael
Published: February 2009

The aim of this work is to develop a simultaneous multi user access system â?? READ (Remote ASIC Design and Test) that allows users to perform test and measurements remotely via clients running on mobile devices as well as on standard PCs. The system also facilitates the remote design of circuits with the PAC-Designer The system is controlled by LabVIEW and was implemented using a Data Acquisition Card from National instruments. Such systems are specially suited for manufacturing process monitoring and control. The performance of the simultaneous access was tested under load with a variable number of users. The server implements a queue that processes userâ??s commands upon request.
A NOVEL DATA MINING ALGORITHM AND KNOWLEDGE-BASED DIAGNOSTIC RULES FOR MEDICAL THERMOGRAPH
Authors: Lee Ming-Yih , Yang Chi-Shih
Published: February 2009

Diagnosis with medical infrared thermograph has long been recognized as lack of objective assessment and scientific analysis in clinical applications. In this study, a novel data mining algorithm with a parametric factor analysis protocol was utilized for generating knowledge-based diagnostic rules from infrared thermograph. These governing rules were developed through four-stage imaging analysis processes, i.e. geometric lofting standardization, abnormal region statistics, parametric factors analysis, and anatomical organs matching. In the first stage, Beier–Neely field morphing and linear affine transformation algorithms were used in geometric standardization for whole body contour and partial region, respectively. In addition, these two transformation methods were applied to solve the dilemma of thermal image deformation. In the second stage, pixels of abnormal body temperature were classified by a confident level. Cohesive and de-noises parameters were gathered to unify the pepper-like pixels into abnormal regions. In the third stage, 25 parametric factors were extracted from each abnormal region, and decision tree induction method was used to generate the knowledge-based diagnostic rules. In the final stage, the minimum box method was utilized for anatomical organ matching to identify the corresponding organ with abnormal temperature distribution. To verify the validity of the proposed knowledge-based diagnostic rules, a total of 71 and 131 female patients with and without breast cancer, respectively, were both analyzed in this study. Experimental results indicated that a total of 1750 abnormal regions (703 positive and 1047 negative) were detected. Based on decision tree induction method, 822 branches were broken down in the decision space. The more positive abnormal regions that were found in the terminal nodes of a specific branch, the higher the possibilities were for having cancer. Fourteen branches of the decision tree with terminal nodes were found to have more than four positive abnormal regions. Sixty one positive abnormal regions (61/703 = 8.6%) from 44 cancer patients (42/71 = 59.2%) can be found in the above-mentioned 14 branches. In conclusion, the test results reveal that the proposed data mining algorithm and knowledge-based diagnostic rules may be effective in clinical diagnosis of thermograph regardless of the type of disease.
Measuring user satisfaction: a case study at the PGlM Branch Library at Peradeniya
Authors: Seneviratne Daisy
Published: February 2009

The paper discusses the results of a user satisfaction survey as a guide to improve the collection and services of a library. The purpose of the library survey conducted in 2005 was to evaluate satisfaction of users over currently available resources; service quality and assess future information needs of the users of PGlM Branch Library at Peradeniya. The questionnaire was distributed among a random sample of 120 users and 74 responded. Most respondents were somewhat or very satisfied with overall library services and staff performance; moderately satisfied with the print collection; and least satisfied with space and ventilation; lack of study areas and the noisy environment. The helpfulness of the staff was rated the best. Based on the findings, several steps were taken to modify or change collection development, services and customer care. The more grieving problems that are still to be answered by the authorities were forwarded for their attention. Survey led to more intimate analyzing of the strengths and weaknesses of the library and it was illustrated that such studies are needed in regular intervals for improvement.      doi: 10.4038/jula.v10i0.317 Journal of the University Librarians Association of Sri Lanka (Vol. 10) 2006 p.40-53
A Study on the pattern of usage of library facilities at the Medical Library, University of Peradeniya
Authors: Perera PASH
Published: February 2009

A survey was carried out at the Medical Library of the University of Peradeniya to evaluate the services and the usage of library materials available within the library. The methodology consisted of survey research and analysis of library statistics taken during a selected period. A questionnaire designed with some targeted objectives was used as an instrument in the survey along with other tools such as various registers to count the number of users and also the purpose of their visit to the library. Responses received from the survey were turned into data that could be analyzed using standard methods. Results revealed significant variation within and among user groups, concerning various aspects of the study.      doi: 10.4038/jula.v9i0.312 Journal of the University Librarians Association of Sri Lanka (Vol. 9) 2005 p.41-61
Past, Present and Future of Compiling Union Catalogues in Sri Lanka
Authors: Gunaratne EK
Published: February 2009

The first proper library index was prepared by Sir Anthony Panizzi in 1941. Union catalogue, which is a collection of several library indexes is a product of the Library of Congress. Sri Lanka Science Council (UNICAST - 1977), Development Information Centre (INICDEV - 1978), and the Central Environmental Authority (UNICEB - 1993) have developed several union catalogues. It is a task of the National Library to collect all these and create the National Union Catalogue. That is a necessity to properly function the library services of the country. doi: 10.4038/jula.v10i0.320 Journal of the University Librarians Association of Sri Lanka (Vol. 10) 2006 p.35-40
Direct B‐Alkyl Suzuki–Miyaura Cross‐Coupling of Trialkyl‐ boranes with Aryl Bromides in the Presence of Unmasked Acidic or Basic Functions and Base‐Labile Protections under Mild Non‐Aqueous Conditions
Authors: Wang Bing , Sun Hui‐Xia , Sun Zhi‐Hua , Lin Guo‐Qiang
Published: February 2009

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An efficient and chemoselective palladium‐catalyzed direct B‐alkyl Suzuki–Miyaura cross‐coupling of trialkylboranes with diversely functionalized aryl bromides is described. A wide variety of unmasked acidic or basic functions are tolerated. The mild non‐aqueous conditions are compatible with aldehydes, ketones, nitriles, chloro substitution as well as base‐labile phenolic Piv and TBS protecting groups. The anhydrous conditions were found to be advantageous for aryl bromide substrates. A potent CEPT inhibitor was efficiently synthesised using this protocol.
Development of the First Iron Chloride‐Catalyzed Hydration of Terminal Alkynes
Authors: Wu Xiao‐Feng , Bezier David , Darcel Christophe
Published: February 2009

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The development of the first iron‐catalyzed hydration of terminal alkynes is described using a catalytic amount of iron(III) chloride (10 mol%). The reaction leads selectively to the corresponding methyl ketone derivatives.
Glutamate receptors on myelinated spinal cord axons: I. GluR6 kainate receptors
Authors: Ouardouz Mohamed , Coderre Elaine , Basak Ajoy , Chen Andrew , Zamponi Gerald W. , Hameed Shameed , Rehak Renata , Yin Xinghua , Trapp Bruce D. , Stys Peter K.
Published: February 2009

Objective

The deleterious effects of glutamate excitotoxicity are well described for central nervous system gray matter. Although overactivation of glutamate receptors also contributes to axonal injury, the mechanisms are poorly understood. Our goal was to elucidate the mechanisms of kainate receptor–dependent axonal Ca2+deregulation.

Methods

Dorsal column axons were loaded with a Ca2+indicator and imaged in vitro using confocal laser‐scanning microscopy.

Results

Activation of glutamate receptor 6 (GluR6) kainate receptors promoted a substantial increase in axonal [Ca2+]. This Ca2+accumulation was due not only to influx from the extracellular space, but a significant component originated from ryanodine‐dependent intracellular stores, which, in turn, depended on activation of L‐type Ca2+channels: ryanodine, nimodipine, or nifedipine blocked the agonist‐induced Ca2+increase. Also, GluR6 stimulation induced intraaxonal production of nitric oxide (NO), which greatly enhanced the Ca2+response: quenching of NO with intraaxonal (but not extracellular) scavengers, or inhibition of neuronal NO synthase with intraaxonal Nω‐nitro‐L‐arginine methyl ester, blocked the Ca2+increase. Loading axons with a peptide that mimics the C‐terminal PDZ binding sequence of GluR6, thus interfering with the coupling of GluR6 to downstream effectors, greatly reduced the agonist‐induced axonal Ca2+increase. Immunohistochemistry showed GluR6/7 clusters on the axolemma colocalized with neuronal NO synthase and Cav1.2.

Interpretation

Myelinated spinal axons express functional GluR6‐containing kainate receptors, forming part of novel signaling complexes reminiscent of postsynaptic membranes of glutamatergic synapses. The ability of such axonal “nanocomplexes” to release toxic amounts of Ca2+may represent a key mechanism of axonal degeneration in disorders such as multiple sclerosis where abnormal accumulation of glutamate and NO are known to occur. Ann Neurol 2009
Inside Cover: A Synthetic Lectin for O‐Linked β‐N‐Acetylglucosamine (Angew. Chem. Int. Ed. 10/2009)
Authors: Ferrand Yann , Klein Emmanuel , Barwell Nicholas P. , Crump Matthew P. , Jiménez‐Barbero Jesus , Vicent Cristina , Boons Geert‐Jan , Ingale Sampat , Davis Anthony P.
Published: February 2009

Carbohydrates are slippery customers in water. Camouflaged by solvent‐mimicking hydroxy groups, they make challenging targets, even for natural receptors. In their Communication on page 1775 ff., A. P. Davis and co‐workers describe a synthetic receptor that is remarkably effective for the important β‐N‐acetylglucosaminyl (β‐GlcNAC) unit. The affinities of the receptor are good and its selectivities are excellent, even by the standards of natural carbohydrate‐binding proteins.

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Polymer networks with antibacterial activity by UV photopolymerization
Authors: Gozzelino G. , Dell'Aquila G. A. , Tobar D. Romero
Published: February 2009

The crosslinking by radical UV photopolymerization of mixtures of acrylic oligomers added with 2,4,4′‐trichloro‐2′‐hydroxydiphenyl ether (TCDPE) allows to obtain polymer films which perform like hygienic coatings. The release of the bioactive compound from two types of acrylic networks obtained by UV crosslinking of polyfunctional monomers, namely, epoxy‐based and urethane‐based diacrylic oligomers, has been investigated. The photopolymerization process was influenced by biocide presence only at high biocide concentration, where the plasticizing effect of the biocide increased the double bond conversion. The kinetic curve of the photopolymerization was fitted by an Avrami‐like equation and the release of TCDPE from the networks into solutions of ethanol–water of different compositions was discussed on the base of the Fick's diffusion equation. The antimicrobial activity of the UV photopolymerized film has been tested by putting the coatings in contact with two types of colony‐forming bacteria, the Escherichia coli (Gram negative) and the Staphylococcus aureus (Gram positive). Strong hygienic performances toward the tested pathogens were observed for the urethane and epoxy films containing TCDPE in quantities as low as 0.1 wt %. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009
Preparation and properties of silver‐containing nylon 6 nanofibers formed by electrospinning
Authors: Park Suk‐Woo , Bae Hyun‐Su , Xing Zhi‐Cai , Kwon Oh Hyeong , Huh Man‐Woo , Kang Inn‐Kyu
Published: February 2009

Nylon 6 nanofibers containing silver nanoparticles (nylon 6/silver) were successfully prepared by electrospinning. The structure and properties of the electrospun fibers were studied with the aid of scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, energy‐dispersive spectroscopy, and X‐ray diffraction. The structural analysis indicated that the fibers electrospun at maximum conditions were straight and that silver nanoparticles were distributed in the fibers. Finally, the antibacterial activities of the nylon 6/silver nanofiber mats were investigated in a broth dilution test against Staphylococcus aureus (Gram‐positive) and Klebsiella pneumoniae (Gram‐negative) bacteria. It was revealed that nylon 6/silver possessed excellent antibacterial properties and an inhibitory effect on the growth of S. aureus and K. pneumoniae. On the contrary, nylon 6 fibers without silver nanoparticles did not show any such antibacterial activity. Therefore, electrospun nylon 6/silver nanocomposites could be used in water filters, wound dressings, or antiadhesion membranes. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009
PAN‐based fibers modified with two‐component ceramic nanoparticles
Authors: Boguń Maciej , Mikołajczyk Teresa
Published: February 2009

The authors determined conditions for manufacturing PAN precursor fibers containing a system of two nanoadditives, montmorillonite (MMT), and hydroxyapatite (HAp) in their structure. The PAN precursor fibers thus obtained are characterized by a tenacity of more than 30 cN/tex and a total volume of pores at the level of 0.29 cm3/g. Furthermore, it was found that the use of nanoadditives entails the remodeling of the paracrystalline structure of PAN fibers into a strictly crystalline one. This is accompanied by a decrease in spacing between MMT layers combined with their partial exfoliation. The fibers thus obtained, after being carbonized, will be used for medical applications. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009
Crystallization behavior and mechanical properties of poly(ε‐caprolactone)/cyclodextrin biodegradable composites
Authors: Dong Tungalag , Mori Takafumi , Pan Pengju , Kai Weihua , Zhu Bo , Inoue Yoshio
Published: February 2009

The poly(ε‐caprolactone) (PCL)/α‐cyclodextrin (α‐CD) inclusion complex (PCLIC) was successfully prepared, and its effect on the thermal behavior and mechanical properties of PCL was thoroughly studied. It is shown that the addition of PCLIC greatly increased the crystallization rate and thermal stability of the PCL. The Young's modulus and yield strength of PCL/PCLIC composite are about 2 and 1.3 times of the pure PCL, and the elongation at break of the PCL/PCLIC composites kept above 350%, when the PCLIC composition is 15 wt %. It is shown that PCLIC is a good enforcing biofiller for the PCL. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009
Water‐soluble polymers: Optimization of arsenate species retention by ultrafiltration
Authors: Rivas Bernabé L. , Aguirre María Del Carmen
Published: February 2009

The liquid‐phase polymer‐based retention (LPR) technique was employed to study the retention of arsenate species by poly(vinylbenzyl trimethylammonium chloride), P(ClVBTA), and poly[2‐(acryloyloxy)ethyltrimethylammonium chloride], P(ClAETA). The effect of parameters such as polymer concentration, time exposure, competition of sulfate and phosphate anions, and the use of natural systems as drinking water on the retention of As(V) species was analyzed. The mole ratios of polymer : As(V) of (31 : 1), (20 : 1), (10 : 1), (6 : 1), and (3 : 1) by using the washing method at pH 8 and 6 were assayed. The retention capacity was a function of polymer concentration and pH. The optimum mole ratio of polymer : As(V) was (20 : 1) for all pHs studied and all polymeric structures. The polymer's activity recovery assays were performed by washing at pH 2 and 3. A 95% As(V) elimination was achieved from polymers. A study of competition in the presence of other anions was performed at the same polymer : As(V) ratio (20 : 1). At pH 8 and at the same concentration of arsenate anions, sulfate, and phosphate anions, no important competition on arsenic retention was observed. Assays for P(ClVBTA) at pH 8 and mole ratio of polymer : As(V) (20 : 1), (40 : 1), and (60 : 1) using drinking water showed that the efficiency was higher under these conditions for the three As(V) retention cases. An unbuffered system with drinking water was tested for washing and enrichment methods by determining the maximum saturation capacity of the P(ClVBTA) polymer. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009
Effect of damp‐heat aging on the structures and properties of ethylene‐vinyl acetate copolymers with different vinyl acetate contents
Authors: Shi Xu‐Ming , Zhang Jun , Li Deng‐Ru , Chen Shuang‐Jun
Published: February 2009

We reported herein the damp‐heat aging of ethylene‐vinyl acetate copolymers (EVA) with different vinyl acetate (VAc) contents simultaneously for weeks. The aging was carried out under temperature of 40°C and relative humidity of 93% in air atmosphere. The changes of copolymers' structures and properties were investigated by means of FTIR, wide angle X‐ray diffraction (WAXD) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and mechanical tests. CI values derived from ATR‐FTIR spectra have a decrease when aging time is 1 week and then increase during damp‐heat aging process which suggests the first loss then incorporation of OC group. WAXD infer that the narrowing trend of FWHM and increase of crystal sizes may attribute to the melting and re‐crystallization of secondary crystallization, which is also confirmed by DSC results. Mechanical tests including Shore A and Shore D hardness, modulus at 100%, tensile strength and elongation at break, are all depending on the primary crystallization and influenced little by damp‐heat aging. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009
Swelling behavior of poly(MMA‐co‐BA‐co‐PPGDA) polymers
Authors: Bajpai Sweta , Rai J. S. P. , Nigam Indira
Published: February 2009

The kinetics of emulsion polymerization of monomers MMA/BA was studied to investigate the effect of cross‐linkable monomer PPGDA. The results showed that by the incorporation of PPGDA, rate constant of reaction decreased. The IR and differential scanning calorimetry were used to characterize the presence of PPGDA in the synthesized polymers. These polymers were coated on glass panels and cured at appropriate temperature. The results showed that the polymer containing 15 wt % PPGDA had minimum value of Fickian diffusion coefficient, thus showing highest level of cross‐linking among all the polymers studied. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009
Magnetic polymer microspheres with azidocarbonyl groups: Synthesis, characterization and application in protein immobilization
Authors: Guo Na , Wu Daocheng , Pan Xinghua , Lu Maolin
Published: February 2009

A novel magnetic polymer microsphere with amide groups and carboxyl groups was synthesized and reported here. The azidocarbonyl groups were derived from amide groups and linked to the proteins to investigate their immobilization capacity. The morphology, size, functional groups and magnetic properties of magnetic microspheres were characterized by optical microscopy, particle size analyzer, atom force microscopy, magnetic force microscopy, fourier transform infrared spectrometer, vibrating‐sample magnetometer and thermal gravimetric analysis. The results indicated that the magnetic polymer microspheres had a well spherical shape with the size ranging from 1 to 10 μm, highly reactive functional groups, superparamagnetism and strong magnetic responsibility with saturation magnetization of 18.443 emu/g and Fe3O4 content around 21%. The immobilization capacity (η) was over 70%. The novel azidocarbonyl magnetic polymer microspheres showed potentials to be a good magnetic support and promising applications in bioseparation and biomedical fields. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009
A novel approach for enhancing the catalytic efficiency of a protease at low temperature: Reduction in substrate inhibition by chemical modification
Authors: Siddiqui Khawar Sohail , Parkin Don M. , Curmi Paul M. G. , Francisci Davide De , Poljak Anne , Barrow Kevin , Noble Malcolm H. , Trewhella Jill , Cavicchioli Ricardo
Published: February 2009

The alkaline protease, savinase was chemically modified to enhance the productivity of the enzyme at low temperatures on a complex polymeric protein (azocasein) substrate. At 5 and 15°C, savinase modified with ficol or dextran hydrolyzed fivefold more azocasein than the unmodified savinase. Kinetic studies showed that the catalytic improvements are associated with changes in uncompetitive substrate inhibition with Ki values of modified savinases sixfold higher than the unmodified savinase. Modeling of small‐angle scattering data indicates that two substrate molecules bind on opposing sides of the enzyme. The combined kinetic and structural data indicate that the polysaccharide modifier sterically blocks the allosteric site and reduces substrate inhibition. In contrast to the properties of cold‐active enzymes that generally manifest as low activation enthalpy and high flexibility, this study shows that increased activity and productivity at low temperature can be achieved by reducing uncompetitive substrate inhibition, and that this can be achieved using chemical modification with an enzyme in a commercial enzyme‐formulation. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2009;103: 676–686. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Validation of the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer QLQ-LMC21 questionnaire for assessment of patient-reported outcomes during treatment of colorectal liver metastases
Authors: Blazeby J M , Fayers P , Conroy T , Sezer O , Ramage J , Rees M
Published: February 2009

Background

There is a lack of valid patient-reported outcome (PRO) measures for hepatectomy or palliative treatment of colorectal hepatic metastases. This study examined the validity and reliability of the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life questionnaire liver module (QLQ-LMC21) in patients with liver metastases from colorectal cancer.

Methods

Some 356 patients completed the core questionnaire (QLQ-C30), QLQ-LMC21 and a debriefing questionnaire before and 3 months after hepatectomy or palliative treatment. Construct, criterion and clinical validity were evaluated before and after treatment.

Results

Questionnaire compliance was high; less than 1 per cent of data were missing from individual items. Modifications to the hypothesized scale structure produced four scales and nine single items with good reliability, clinical, criterion and construct validity. The QLQ-LMC21 distinguished between patients selected for surgery or palliative treatment in nine of these 13. Significant changes in PROs were observed before and after treatment. The new module discriminated between clinically distinct groups of patients and measured aspects of quality of life not covered in the core questionnaire.

Conclusion

The EORTC QLQ-LMC21 is a valid and reliable questionnaire module to use with the QLQ-C30 in assessing PROs in hepatectomy or palliative treatment for colorectal liver metastases.
Ten-year experience of totally laparoscopic liver resection in a single institution
Authors: Sasaki A , Nitta H , Otsuka K , Takahara T , Nishizuka S , Wakabayashi G
Published: February 2009

Background

Recent developments in liver surgery include the introduction of laparoscopic liver resection. The aim of the present study was to review a single institution's 10-year experience of totally laparoscopic liver resection (TLLR).

Methods

Between May 1997 and April 2008, 82 patients underwent TLLR for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) (37 patients), liver metastases (39) and benign liver lesions (six). Operations included 69 laparoscopic wedge resections, 11 laparoscopic left lateral sectionectomies and two thoracoscopic wedge resections. Nine patients underwent simultaneous laparoscopic resection of colorectal primary cancer and synchronous liver metastases.

Results

Median operating time was 177 (range 70–430) min and blood loss 64 (range 1–917) ml. Median tumour size and surgical margin were 25 (range 15–85) and 6 (range 0–40) mm respectively. One procedure was converted to a laparoscopically assisted hepatectomy. Three patients developed complications. Median postoperative stay was 9 (range 3–37) days. The overall 5-year survival rate after surgery for HCC and colorectal metastases was 53 and 64 per cent respectively.

Conclusion

TLLR can be performed safely for a variety of primary and secondary liver tumours, and seems to offer at least short-term benefits in selected patients.
Interposition graft with polytetrafluoroethylene for mesenteric and portal vein reconstruction after pancreaticoduodenectomy
Authors: Stauffer J A , Dougherty M K , Kim G P , Nguyen J H
Published: February 2009

Background

Portal vein–superior mesenteric vein resection is frequently required after surgical resection of tumours of the pancreas head. The ideal graft for portal vein reconstruction (PVR) remains undefined.

Methods

Between May 2000 and July 2007, 28 patients had portal vein–superior mesenteric vein resection and PVR during pancreaticoduodenectomy. Their clinical reports were reviewed retrospectively with specific attention to the methods of PVR and outcomes.

Results

Ten patients had PVR with primary anastomosis, seven had PVR with autologous vein, one had a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) patch, one did not have PVR and nine had PVR with a PTFE interposition graft. There was no infection after PTFE grafting. Six patients had PVR thrombosis after surgery: four after primary anastomosis, one after interposition PTFE and one after vein repair.

Conclusion

PTFE appeared to be an effective and safe option as an interposition graft for portomesenteric venous reconstruction after pancreaticoduodenectomy.
Photodynamic therapy for biliary tract cancer
Authors: Bridgewater J
Published: February 2009

Merits careful evaluation
Surgery and the prevention of limb loss in diabetes
Authors: Home P D
Published: February 2009

Amputation usually represents failure of care
A pedagogical flight simulator for longitudinal airplane flight
Authors: Tarantino G. , Fazio C. , Sperandeo‐Mineo R. M.
Published: February 2009

This article presents a bi‐dimensional model of flight and describes the implementation of a flight simulator able to describe the different phases of longitudinal flight of a real airplane. After identifying the relevant physical variables, the equations of motion are written and solved using a numerical integration method. Using computer simulations, flight paths and time evolution of the kinematics variables are analyzed for a complete flight of a light commercial airplane. The simulations take into account and reproduce the basic actions of a pilot to control the flight. The main maneuvers involved in pilotage are also predicted and explained in terms of model parameter variations inducing transitions in the phase space. Finally, the steady‐state configurations are analyzed by means of the linearization of equations in order to gain meaningful information about the dynamical stability of the system. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Comput Appl Eng Educ 18: 144–156, 2010; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com); DOI 10.1002/cae.20177
An educational tool for power electronics circuits
Authors: Elmas Cetin , Sönmez Yusuf
Published: February 2009

In this study, an educational tool has been prepared for a shorter term and more economic education of power electronics circuits. In parallel with the improvements of semiconductor technology, the development of power electronics circuits has magnified the importance of either teorical or practical education of power electronics course. The education of power electronic circuits in laboratory is an agelong, costly piece of work. In this study, to overcome the mentioned negativities, a tool has been prepared for the education of power electronic circuits. The tool, which has been prepared on C++ Builder environment has a flexible structure and a graphical interface. It has enabled the analysis of working principles of the circuits and traceability of the system response by the help of graphics, under different conditions created by changing the values of circuit elements. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Comput Appl Eng Educ 18: 157–165, 2010; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com); DOI 10.1002/cae.20237
Traditional antegrade approach versus combined antegrade and retrograde approach in the percutaneous treatment of coronary chronic total occlusions
Authors: Hsu Jen Te , Tamai Hideo , Kyo Eisho , Tsuji Takafumi , Watanabe Satoshi
Published: February 2009

Objectives: The goal of this study was to compare the antegrade‐approach and bilateral‐approach strategies for chronic total occlusion (CTO). Background: The retrograde approach has been reported for difficult CTO lesions. Methods: This study assessed 96 consecutive patients with 119 CTO lesions. The lesions were treated with either an antegrade approach (A group) or a combined bilateral antegrade and retrograde approach (B group). The specific intervention techniques, in‐hospital success rate, and major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCE) were compared. Results: Lesions with well‐developed septal collaterals with nontortuous microchannels were preferentially chosen for the B group versus A group (P < 0.001 and 0.008, respectively). Compared with the A group, there were more CTO lesions located in the right coronary artery in the B group (P < 0.001). In the B group, the CTO lesions had a longer length and needed stiffer wires for crossing than in the A group (P = 0.001 and 0.046, respectively). The technical success rate was 94% and 86% for the A group and the B group, respectively (P = 0.127). In‐hospital complications were not different between the two groups. The B group needed a higher radiation exposure dose and a greater exposure time than the A group (P < 0.001). In the B group, use of the retrograde method significantly increased the final success rate. Conclusions: These results suggest that all CTO lesions should first be managed with an antegrade approach. When there is difficulty crossing the lesion, switching to a bilateral approach is an option for lesions with well‐developed collaterals. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Regression and correlation for 3 × 3 rotation matrices
Authors: Rivest Louis‐Paul , Chang Ted
Published: February 2009

This paper investigates a regression model for orthogonal matrices introduced by Prentice (1989). It focuses on the special case of 3 × 3 rotation matrices. The model under study expresses the dependent rotation matrixVasA1UAt2perturbed by experimental errors, whereA1andA2are unknown 3 × 3 rotation matrices andUis an explanatory 3 × 3 rotation matrix. Several specifications for the errors in this regression model are proposed. The asymptotic distributions, as the sample size n becomes large or as the experimental errors become small, of the least squares estimators forA1andA2are derived. A new algorithm for calculating the least squares estimates ofA1andA2is presented. The independence model is not a submodel of Prentice's regression model, thus the independence between theUand theVsample cannot be tested when fitting Prentice's model. To overcome this difficulty, permutation tests of independence are investigated. Examples dealing with postural variations of subjects performing a drilling task and with the calibration of a camera system for motion analysis using a magnetic tracking device illustrate the methodology of this paper.
Interval estimation via tail functions
Authors: Puza Borek , O'Neill Terence
Published: February 2009

The authors describe a new method for constructing confidence intervals. Their idea consists in specifying the cutoff points in terms of a function of the target parameter rather than as constants. When it is suitably chosen, this so‐called tail function yields shorter confidence intervals in the presence of prior information. It can also be used to improve the coverage properties of approximate confidence intervals. The authors illustrate their technique by application to interval estimation of the mean of Bernoulli and normal populations. They further suggest guidelines for choosing the optimal tail function and discuss the relationship with Bayesian inference.
Corrected local polynomial estimation in varying‐coefficient models with measurement errors
Authors: You Jinhong , Zhou Yong , Chen Gemai
Published: February 2009

The authors study a varying‐coefficient regression model in which some of the covariates are measured with additive errors. They find that the usual local linear estimator (LLE) of the coefficient functions is biased and that the usual correction for attenuation fails to work. They propose a corrected LLE and show that it is consistent and asymptotically normal, and they also construct a consistent estimator for the model error variance. They then extend the generalized likelihood technique to develop a goodness of fit test for the model. They evaluate these various procedures through simulation studies and use them to analyze data from the Framingham Heart Study.
Road trafficking description and short term travel time forecasting, with a classification method
Authors: Loubesi Jean‐Michel , Maza Élie , Lavielle Marc , Rodriguez Luis
Published: February 2009

The purpose of this work is, on the one hand, to study how to forecast road trafficking on highway networks and, on the other hand, to describe future traffic events. Here, road trafficking is measured by vehicle velocities. The authors propose two methodologies. The first is based on an empirical classification method, and the second on a probability mixture model. They use an SAEM‐type algorithm (a stochastic approximation of the EM algorithm) to select the densities of the mixture model. Then, they test the validity of their methodologies by forecasting short term travel times.
Some robust design strategies for percentile estimation in binary response models
Authors: Biedermann Stefanie , Dette Holger , Pepelyshev Andrey
Published: February 2009

For the problem of percentile estimation of a quantal response curve, the authors determine multiobjective designs which are robust with respect to misspecifications of the model assumptions. They propose a maximin approach based on efficiencies which leads to designs that are simultaneously efficient with respect to various choices of link functions and parameter regions. Furthermore, the authors deal with the problems of designing model and percentile robust experiments. They give various examples of such designs, which are calculated numerically.
A robust prediction error criterion for pareto modelling of upper tails
Authors: Dupuis Debbie J. , Victoria‐Feser Maria‐Pia
Published: February 2009

Estimation of the Pareto tail index from extreme order statistics is an important problem in many settings. The upper tail of the distribution, where data are sparse, is typically fitted with a model, such as the Pareto model, from which quantities such as probabilities associated with extreme events are deduced. The success of this procedure relies heavily not only on the choice of the estimator for the Pareto tail index but also on the procedure used to determine the number k of extreme order statistics that are used for the estimation. The authors develop a robust prediction error criterion for choosing k and estimating the Pareto index. A Monte Carlo study shows the good performance of the new estimator and the analysis of real data sets illustrates that a robust procedure for selection, and not just for estimation, is needed.
Modelling map positional error to infer true feature location
Authors: Barber Jarrett J. , Gelfand Alan E. , Silander John A.
Published: February 2009

The authors consider the issue of map positional error, or the difference between location as represented in a spatial database (i.e., a map) and the corresponding unobservable true location. They propose a fully model‐based approach that incorporates aspects of the map registration process commonly performed by users of geographic informations systems, including rubber‐sheeting. They explain how estimates of positional error can be obtained, hence estimates of true location. They show that with multiple maps of varying accuracy along with ground truthing data, suitable model averaging offers a strategy for using all of the maps to learn about true location.
Testing multivariate uniformity: The distance‐to‐boundary method
Authors: Berrendero José R. , Cuevas Antonio , Vjosázquez‐grande Francisco
Published: February 2009

Given a random sample taken on a compact domain S ⊂ d, the authors propose a new method for testing the hypothesis of uniformity of the underlying distribution. The test statistic is based on the distance of every observation to the boundary of S. The proposed test has a number of interesting properties. In particular, it is feasible and particularly suitable for high dimensional data; it is distribution free for a wide range of choices of 5; it can be adapted to the case that the support of S is unknown; and it also allows for one‐sided versions. Moreover, the results suggest that, in some cases, this procedure does not suffer from the well‐known curse of dimensionality. The authors study the properties of this test from both a theoretical and practical point of view. In particular, an extensive Monte Carlo simulation study allows them to compare their methods with some alternative procedures. They conclude that the proposed test provides quite a satisfactory balance between power, computational simplicity, and adaptability to different dimensions and supports.
Nonparametric estimation of copula functions for dependence modelling
Authors: Chen Song Xi , Huang Tzee‐Ming
Published: February 2009

Copulas characterize the dependence among components of random vectors. Unlike marginal and joint distributions, which are directly observable, the copula of a random vector is a hidden dependence structure that links the joint distribution with its margins. Choosing a parametric copula model is thus a nontrivial task but it can be facilitated by relying on a nonparametric estimator. Here the authors propose a kernel estimator of the copula that is mean square consistent everywhere on the support. They determine the bias and variance of this estimator. They also study the effects of kernel smoothing on copula estimation. They then propose a smoothing bandwidth selection rule based on the derived bias and variance. After confirming their theoretical findings through simulations, they use their kernel estimator to formulate a goodness‐of‐fit test for parametric copula models.
Local likelihood with time‐varying additive hazards model
Authors: Li Hui , Yin Guosheng , Zhou Yong
Published: February 2009

The authors propose the local likelihood method for the time‐varying coefficient additive hazards model. They use the Newton‐Raphson algorithm to maximize the likelihood into which a local polynomial expansion has been incorporated. They establish the asymptotic properties for the time‐varying coefficient estimators and derive explicit expressions for the variance and bias. The authors present simulation results describing the performance of their approach for finite sample sizes. Their numerical comparisons show the stability and efficiency of the local maximum likelihood estimator. They finally illustrate their proposal with data from a laryngeal cancer clinical study.
Robust likelihood inference for public policy
Authors: Andrews David F.
Published: February 2009

Issues of public policy are typically decided by non‐specialists who are increasingly informed by statistical methods. In order to be influential, inferential techniques must be widely understood and accepted. This motivates the author to propose likelihood‐based methods that prove relatively insensitive to the choice of underlying distribution because they exploit a peculiarly stable relation between two standard errors and a 95% coverage probability. The author also notes that bootstrap and jackknife estimates of variance can sometimes be strongly biased. In fact, symbolic computations in R suggest that they are reliable only for statistics that are well approximated by averages whose distributions are roughly symmetric. The author thus proposes to transform the classical likelihood ratio into a statistic whose variance can be estimated robustly. He shows that the signed root of the log‐likelihood is well approximated by an average with a roughly symmetric distribution. This leads to Cox‐Tukey intervals for a Student‐like statistic and to simple confidence intervals for most models used in public policy.
Simple linear regression with multiple level shifts
Authors: Lu Qiqi , Lund Robert B.
Published: February 2009

The authors study the properties of the ordinary least squares trend estimator in a simple linear regression model with multiple known level shift times. The error component in the model is taken to be a general short‐memory stationary time series. The authors establish the consistency and asymptotic normality of the estimator. They also present a climatological application in which the multiple level shifts are prominent features.
Stationary state space models for longitudinal data
Authors: Jøsrgensen Bent , Song Peter X.‐K.
Published: February 2009

The authors consider a class of state space models for the analysis of non‐normal longitudinal data whose latent process follows a stationary AR(1) model with exponential dispersion model margins. They propose to estimate parameters through an estimating equation approach based on the Kalman smoother. This allows them to carry out a straightforward analysis of a wide range of non‐normal data. They illustrate their approach via a simulation study and through analyses of Brazilian precipitation and US polio infection data.
On inference for a semiparametric partially linear regression model with serially correlated errors
Authors: You Jinhong , Chen Gemai
Published: February 2009

The authors consider a semiparametric partially linear regression model with serially correlated errors. They propose a new way of estimating the error structure which has the advantage that it does not involve any nonparametric estimation. This allows them to develop an inference procedure consisting of a bandwidth selection method, an efficient semiparametric generalized least squares estimator of the parametric component, a goodness‐of‐fit test based on the bootstrap, and a technique for selecting significant covariates in the parametric component. They assess their approach through simulation studies and illustrate it with a concrete application.
General mixed‐data model: Extension of general location and grouped continuous models
Authors: De LEON Alexander R. , Carriègre K. C.
Published: February 2009

The authors propose a general model for the joint distribution of nominal, ordinal and continuous variables. Their work is motivated by the treatment of various types of data. They show how to construct parameter estimates for their model, based on the maximization of the full likelihood. They provide algorithms to implement it, and present an alternative estimation method based on the pairwise likelihood approach. They also touch upon the issue of statistical inference. They illustrate their methodology using data from a foreign language achievement study.