bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antidiabetic effect of Olea europaea L. in normal and diabetic rats
Authors: Eidi A. , Eidi M. , Darzi R.
Published: October 2008

The antidiabetic effect of an alcohol extract of olive (Olea europaea L.) leaves was investigated in normal and streptozotocin‐induced diabetic rats. The oral administration of the olive leaves extract (0.1, 0.25 and 0.5 g/kg body wt) for 14 days significantly decreased the serum glucose, total cholesterol, triglycerides, urea, uric acid, creatinine, aspartate amino transferase (AST) and alanine amino transferase (ALT) while it increased the serum insulin in diabetic rats but not in normal rats (p < 0.05). A comparison was made between the action of olive leaves extract and glibenclamide (600 µg/kg), a known antidiabetic drug. The antidiabetic effect of the extract was more effective than that observed with glibenclamide. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Épistémologie 1900 la tradition française
Authors: Castelli Gatiinara Enrico
Published: October 2008

L'article s'interroge sur la tradition française en matière d'épistémologie et analyse la réaction du milieu philosophique du début du xxe siècle face à la crise des acquis philosophiques traditionnels provoquée par le développement des sciences. Les interventions au premier congrès international de Philosophie de 1900 montrent que la philosophie essaie de continuer à exercer une hégémonie sur les sciences, mais que, pour réagir à la crise, elle doit s'engager dans l'histoire des sciences. L'histoire des sciences devient alors le moyen employé par la philosophie pour essayer de garder sa place privilégiée dans l'ensemble du savoir: elle est donc faite par des philosophes qui, de ce fait, en contrôlent les lieux institutionnels. Il devient dès lors possible de tracer une ligne qui relie les questions des philosophes de 1900 à celles qui préoccupent ceux de l'entre-deux-guerres, notamment Gaston Bachelard.
Paul tannery et joseph needham deux plaidoyers pour une histoire générale des sciences
Authors: Chemla Karine , Peiffer Jeanne
Published: October 2008

Alors qu'ils présentent tous deux, sous l'impulsion de la tentative comtienne, des histoires globales des sciences, Paul Tannery et Joseph Needham mettent en place des cadres historiographiques de fait distincts. Tannery fonde son histoire générale sur la notion de civilisation, dont la science est un élément intégrant. L'outil méthodologique qu'il utilise pour dégager les traits saillants qui caractérisent une civilisation donnée à une époque donnée sous l'aspect de la science est la synthèse. Needham part de la science moderne, et se donne pour objectif de mettre en évidence qu'elle fut constituée par un processus de synthèse des apports de différentes traditions. Pour lui, la formation de ce savoir moderne a procédé d'un effort continu qui a tour à tour été mené par les divers groupes composant l'humanité. Tannery, en revanche, est très préoccupé par les ruptures et les crises, qui peuvent être à l'origine de la disparition de pans entiers du savoir, mais aussi d'intenses périodes de création. Ce qu'il est convenu d'appeler« révolution scientifique » prend alors un sens très différent pour les deux historiens.
La révolution scientifique les révolutions et l'histoire des sciences
Authors: Panza Marco
Published: October 2008

Dans son intervention au colloque Koyré (Paris, 1986), Ernest Coumet a suggéré que le terme « révolution scientifique » ne désigne pas chez Koyré un événement historique, mais un idéaltype, au sens de Max Weber. L'auteur discute d'abord cette thèse de Coumet et expose les arguments que ce dernier apporte pour la soutenir. Dans la deuxième partie de l'article, il critique l'usage de la notion de révolution en histoire des sciences, en s'opposant en particulier à la possibilité de distinguer dans les productions des savants une « pensée scientifique » qui serait influencée par la « pensée philosophique » et dont les bouleversements marqueraient l'avènement d'une révolution.
Histoire et théorie du hasard à l'âge classique selon cournot
Authors: Martin Thierry
Published: October 2008

Dans un article décisif sur la naissance du calcul des probabilités (1970), Ernest Coumet rappelait la formule de Cournot selon laquelle le retard qui marque la naissance de la théorie du hasard est «un pur effet du hasard». On se propose ici de soumettre ce jugement à l'examen critique non de l'histoire, mais de la pensée même de Cournot; sa philosophie de l'histoire et sa représentation de l'histoire des sciences au XVIIe siècle semblant, tout d'abord, dénoncer par avance un jugement aussi péremptoire. Pour rendre compte de ce qui peut alors apparaître de sa part comme une inconséquence, voire un aveuglement, on forme l'hypothèse que cette affirmation constitue un artefact de sa conception internaliste de l'histoire des sciences et des révolutions scientifiques. En ce sens, larticle constitue une illustration de la nécessité théorique, mais aussi des difficultés de l'histoire des mathématiques.
Les objets de la chose théorie du hasard et surréalisme au XXe siècle
Authors: Brian Éric
Published: October 2008

Partant de l'itinéraire d'une chose en plâtre qui avait passionné les statisticiens des années 1880 et qui a procuré à André Breton l'exemple même de l'objet surréaliste, on se demande si la théorie surréaliste du hasard est née par hasard. Il s'agit, en déplaçant la question que posait Ernest Coumet en 1970 à propos de la géométrie pascalienne du hasard, de s'interroger sur les rapports qu'entretiennent l'histoire des sciences, l'histoire de l'art et l'histoire de la culture scientifique au siècle dernier. En retour, on espère faire valoir la démarche mise en oeuvre dans cet article qui ouvrit l'horizon des recherches sur l'histoire du calcul des probabilités il y a trente ans.
L'utile de l'entendement et l'utile de l'action
Authors: Cifoletti Giovanna
Published: October 2008

Au xve et au xvie siècle, le mouvement humaniste dans l'enseignement transforma le cursus des artes en une forme plus adaptée aux exigences des nouveaux étudiants, c'est-à-dire des futurs fonctionnaires et dirigeants de l'État. Qu'en a-t-il été vraiment? En particulier, à quoi servaient effectivement les mathématiques dans la nouvelle encyclopédie? Ramus nous donne la réponse la plus explicite: l'ontologie aristotélicienne faisant désormais défaut, on ne pouvait plus compter sur la vieille distinction entre théorie et pratique, entre spéculation et action, mais il fallait introduire un nouvel ordre fondé cette fois sur la connaissance humaine la plus fondamentale, la mathesis. C'est là, la première et irremplaçable utilité des mathématiques. Les arts mécaniques appartenant traditionnellement aux mathématiques sont réformés à l'intérieur de cette nouvelle encyclopédie, et l'humaniste est censé en connaître les principes et l'utilité pour l'action.
« Pondere, numero et mensura » roberval et la géométrie divine
Authors: Gabbey Alan
Published: October 2008

Panni les aspects remarquables de l'Aristarque (1644) de Roberval, on relève la répétition fréquente dans le texte de l'abréviation« P.N.E.M.». Ces lettres signifient « pondere, numero et mensura ». Ces mots sont tirés du Livre de la Sagesse, XI, 20: « Pondere, mensura, numero Deus omnia fecit » (Vulgate). Ce verset est cité chez beaucoup d'auteurs qui veulent louer Dieu Géomètre. Cependant, Roberval n'est nullement pieux. Il s'agit donc ici de savoir pourquoi il se sert de « P.N.E.M.» dans son texte. Roberval se montre-t-il ainsi solidaire de ses confrères mathématiciens du Collège royal, dont le verset serait la devise?
Les lois de la nature à l'âge classique la question terminologique
Authors: Roux Sophie
Published: October 2008

Quatre propositions relatives aux lois de la nature à l'âge classique doivent être distinguées. 1. Certaines régularités dans les phénomènes ont été découvertes. 2. Un concept de loi a émergé. 3. La science classique se caractérise par l'instauration de l'idée de légalité de la nature. 4. De nouveaux usages du mot « loi » sont apparus dans les textes scientifiques. Cet article est uniquement consacré à l'analyse de la quatrième et dernière de ces propositions, autrement dit à un problème terminologique. Dans un premier temps, il procède à la description des usages sémantiques du mot « loi » qui ont pu contribuer à la constitution de son sens classique: usage spécifique, usage disciplinaire, usage physique, usage mathématique, usage métaphysique. Dans un second temps, il analyse les différents moments de la diffusion de ce mot dans les sciences au XVIIe siècle. La thèse générale soutenue est finalement que, si le terme « loi » a bien été utilisé dans les sciences sans référence à un Dieu législateur avant le XVIIe siècle, seule cette référence, autrement dit la rencontre entre l'usage physique et l'usage métaphysique, a permis sa généralisation dans le tournant du XVIIe siècle au XVIIIe siècle.
Le trait d'union musical tiré par mersenne entre encyclopédie et rhétorique académique
Authors: Dufour Michel
Published: October 2008

L'article présente une vision synthétique des conceptions de Mersenne sur la classification des sciences, sur les raisons de celle-ci et sur ses conséquences pour la pratique scientifique. Nous insistons sur les liens organisant les deux axes majeurs de cette pratique: cultiver les sciences est pour lui une activité foncièrement apologétique et édifiante. Ce souci oecuménique lui permet de se démarquer du scepticisme et de l'alchimie, deux courants philosophiques fournissant à son oeuvre des interlocuteurs privilégiés. Nous montrons comment un lien analogique s'appuyant sur des considérations théologiques et sur l'ordre des sciences étaye des arguments similaires valant pour l'arithmétique, les «dictions», et la musique. Enfin, nous replaçons ces thèses, et en particulier celles touchant à la nature et aux vertus du son, dans le contexte de débats plus généraux sur le statut scientifique de la musique et du langage, débats au coeur d'une époque marquée par le bourgeonnement académique.
Synthesis and Microstructural Investigations of Organometallic Pd(II) Thiol-Gold Nanoparticles Hybrids
Authors: Vitale Floriana , Vitaliano Rosa , Battocchio Chiara , Fratoddi Ilaria , Giannini Cinzia , Piscopiello Emanuela , Guagliardi Antonella , Cervellino Antonio , Polzonetti Giovanni , Russo MariaVittoria , Tapfer Leander
Published: October 2008

In this work the synthesis and characterization of gold nanoparticles functionalized by a novel thiol-organometallic complex containing Pd(II) centers is presented. Pd(II) thiol,trans, trans-[dithiolate-dibis(tributylphosphine)dipalladium(II)-4,4′-diethynylbiphenyl] was synthesized and linked to Au nanoparticles by the chemical reduction of a metal salt precursor. The new hybrid made of organometallic Pd(II) thiol-gold nanoparticles, shows through a single S bridge a direct link between Pd(II) and Au nanoparticles. The size-control of the Au nanoparticles (diameter range 2–10 nm) was achieved by choosing the suitable AuCl4
−/thiol molar ratio. The size, strain, shape, and crystalline structure of these functionalized nanoparticles were determined by a full-pattern X-ray powder diffraction analysis, high-resolution TEM, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Photoluminescence spectroscopy measurements of the hybrid system show emission peaks at 418 and 440 nm. The hybrid was exposed to gaseous NO
x
with the aim to evaluate the suitability for applications in sensor devices; XPS measurements permitted to ascertain and investigate the hybrid –gas interaction.
Genetic Variation in ABC G5/G8 and NPC1L1 Impact Cholesterol Response to Plant Sterols in Hypercholesterolemic Men
Authors: Zhao Hai L. , Houweling Adrielle H. , Vanstone Catherine A. , Jew Stephanie , Trautwein Elke A. , Duchateau Guus S. M. J. E. , Jones Peter J. H.
Published: October 2008

ATP‐binding cassette hetero‐dimeric transporters G5 and G8 (ABCG5/G8) have been postulated to mediate intestinal cholesterol efflux, whereas Niemann‐Pick C1 Like 1 (NPC1L1) protein is believed to be essential for intestinal cholesterol influx. The individual or combined genetic markers, such as single nuclear polymorphisms (SNPs), of these two transporter genes may explain inter‐individual variations in plasma cholesterol response following plant sterol (PS) intervention. The present study was aimed at investigating the association between ABCG5/G8 and NPC1L1 genotype SNPs with sterol absorption and corresponding plasma concentrations. The study used a 4‐week crossover design with 82 hypercholesterolemic men characterized by high vs. low basal plasma PS concentrations consuming spreads with or without 2 g/day of PS. For the ABCG8 1289 C > A (T400 K) polymorphism, the A allele carriers with high basal plasma PS concentrations demonstrated a 3.9‐fold greater reduction (p < 0.05) in serum low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C) than their low basal plasma PS counterparts. For the NPC1L1 haplotype of 872 C > G (L272L) and 3929 G > A (Y1291Y), individuals carrying mutant alleles showed a 2.4‐fold greater (p < 0.05) reduction in LDL‐C levels, compared to wild type counterparts. Results suggest that genetic and metabolic biomarkers together may predict inter‐individual lipid level responsiveness to PS‐intervention, and thus could be useful in devising individualized cholesterol lowering strategies.
The organizational antecedents of a firm’s supply chain agility for risk mitigation and response
Authors: Braunscheidel Michael J. , Suresh Nallan C.
Published: October 2008

Today’s marketplace is characterized by intense competitive pressures as well as high levels of turbulence and uncertainty. Organizations require agility in their supply chains to provide superior value as well as to manage disruption risks and ensure uninterrupted service to customers. Thus the cultivation of agility is approached as a risk management initiative that enables a firm to respond rapidly to marketplace changes, as well as anticipated and actual disruptions in the supply chain. Agility is of value for both risk mitigation and response.

This research investigates the impact of two cultural antecedents, market orientation and learning orientation, and three organizational practices, all aimed at augmenting the supply chain agility of a firm. A firm’s supply chain agility (FSCA) is defined as the capability of the firm, both internally and in conjunction with its key suppliers and customers, to adapt or respond in a speedy manner to marketplace changes as well as to potential and actual disruptions, contributing to the agility of the extended supply chain.

The two cultural antecedents of market and learning orientations are posited to affect the organizational practices of internal integration, external integration with key suppliers and customers, and external flexibility, and eventually impact the firm’s supply chain agility. The external flexibility elements considered are volume and mix flexibility. In addition, the specific organizational characteristics and practices exhibited by firms with high levels of supply chain agility are also investigated.

Through the use of the structural equation modeling technique, partial least squares (PLS), it is shown that strong linkages exist among the cultural antecedents, the three organizational practices considered, and the firm’s supply chain agility. All three organizational practices, internal integration, external integration with key suppliers and customers, and external flexibility are shown to have significant positive impact on the firm’s supply chain agility.

Market orientation is shown to significantly impact both internal and external supply chain integration, along with the two elements of external flexibility. Learning orientation, on the other hand, is shown to have a strong and direct influence only on the level of internal integration. Firms with high levels of external integration are also shown to have high levels of internal integration, consistent with past research. Internal and external integration efforts are also seen to be unrelated to the levels of external flexibility present. The results serve to establish a set of key drivers for augmenting supply chain agility as a risk management initiative.
How reliable and robust are current biomarkers for copper status? – reply by Danzeisen et al.
Authors: Danzeisen Ruth , Araya Magdalena , Harrison Brenda , Keen Carl , Solioz Marc , Thiele Dennis , McArdle Harry J.
Published: October 2008

The response by Brewer & Althaus to our recent review on biomarkers for Cu(1) bears testimony that the subject is topical and of public, scientific and commercial interest.
Potential of an alternative prey to disrupt predation of the generalist predator,Orius insidiosus, on the pest aphid,Aphis glycines, via short-term indirect interactions
Authors: Desneux N. , O'Neil R.J.
Published: October 2008

Generalist insect predators can significantly impact the dynamics of pest populations; and, using alternative prey, they can rapidly establish in disturbed agroecosystems. However, indirect interactions between prey can occur, leading to either increased or decreased predation on focal prey. The present paper demonstrates how alternative prey can disrupt predation by the hemipteranOrius insidiosuson the soybean aphidAphis glycinesvia short-term indirect interactions. We used laboratory microcosms to measure the impact of the predator on the population growth of the aphid in the presence of alternative prey, soybean thripsNeohydatothrips variabilis, and we characterized the foraging behaviour of the predator to assess prey preference. We showed thatO. insidiosuspredation on aphids was reduced in the presence of thrips and that this positive impact on aphids increased as thrips density increased. Results from the behavioural experiment support the hypothesis of a prey preference toward thrips. When prey-pest ratio is aphid-biased, short-term apparent commensalism between prey occurs in favour of the most abundant prey (aphids) with no switching behaviour appearing inO. insidiosus. These results demonstrate that potential indirect interactions should be taken into account when consideringO. insidiosusas a biocontrol agent against the soybean aphid.
L'espace, le temps et l'émancipation. Essai sur la parole
Authors: Giroux Dalie
Published: October 2008

Résumé. La réflexion offerte dans cet essai s'inscrit dans une entreprise d'approfondissement de la compréhension générale que nous avons de l'activité politique (parler, écrire, revendiquer, mettre en scène), et particulièrement de la relation que cette activité entretient avec l'idée de l'émancipation. Plus précisément, il s'agit de prendre pour objet d'exploration théorique le fait de parole, défini en termes d'articulation performative des espaces-temps humains, et d'en faire le paradigme de toute action politique. L'analyse de ce paradigme, au terme, permettra de pointer vers une matière utopique qui se qualifie à la fois comme événement et comme permanence du commun.

Abstract. In this article, the author seeks a better understanding of the modalities of political action (speaking, writing, claming, staging), and more specifically of the relation between political action and the idea of emancipation. To do so, the author proposes that the speech act, comprehended as the performed articulation of lived space/time, is to be taken as the paradigm of political action. Further analysis of this paradigm, as developed in the article, compels the manifestation of a philosophical object which qualifies both as event and as the manifestation of the perennially of the common.
A Genealogy of Rational Choice: Rationalism, Elitism, and Democracy
Authors: Maloy J. S.
Published: October 2008

Abstract.Unlike previous methodological debates in political science, the recent rational choice controversy has excluded consideration of normative questions altogether. These can be recovered, in part, through a genealogy of counter-utopian democratic theory which connects modern rational choice theory to the fin-de-siècle sociology of elites via the mediating figure of Schumpeter. The family resemblances include the aspiration toward a pure science of society, the search for a “realistic” theory of democratic politics, and the shading of an empirical proposition about elite domination into a normative celebration. Though democratic theorists have learned much from the counter-utopian tradition generally, both sides of the rational choice controversy have failed to take seriously the elitists' recognition of the ineluctable normative and ideological dimensions of social research.

Résumé.Les débats récents sur le choix rationnel, à contre-pied d'autres disputes méthodologiques en science politique, ont exclu les questions normatives. Ces questions peuvent se rétablir, en partie, par l'intermédiaire d'une généalogie contre-utopiste de la théorie démocratique, qui lie la théorie moderne du choix rationnel au retour de la sociologie élitiste de fin de siècle, avec le personnage de Schumpeter comme médiateur. Les ressemblances familiales portent l'aspiration à une science pure de la société, la recherche d'une théorie «réaliste» de la démocratie et la transition d'une proposition empirique sur la domination des élites vers une célébration normative. Bien que les théoriciens démocratiques aient beaucoup appris de la tradition contre-utopiste, aucune des deux parties du débat sur le choix rationnel n'a pris en compte la reconnaissance élitiste des aspects idéologiques inévitables de la recherche sociale.
Is Race Political?
Authors: Thompson Debra
Published: October 2008

Abstract.This article demonstrates that though the political nature of race is evident and constitutes an important area of research, there is a dearth of literature on race in English Canadian political science particularly as compared to other social sciences. The article provides explanations for this disciplinary silence, including methodological fuzziness, dominant elite-focused and colour-blind approaches to the study of politics, and the prevalence of ideas and foci about the nature of Canadian politics. In order to avoid the danger of disciplinary lag, it concludes with several ways of addressing this disparity between the political science and the society it purports to analyze.

Résumé.Malgré l'essence politique évidente du concept de «race» et son importance indéniable comme sujet de recherche, la littérature de science politique canadienne-anglaise s'y attarde très peu, surtout en comparaison des autres sciences sociales. L'article explique les causes de ce silence disciplinaire. Celles-ci incluent un flou méthodologique, une approche surtout centrée sur l'élite, une perspective «daltonienne» concernant l'étude de la politique, ainsi que la prédominance de certaines idées quant à la nature de la politique canadienne. Afin d'éviter un danger de lacune disciplinaire, l'article propose des solutions permettant de réduire l'écart entre la science politique et son objet d'étude, soit la société réelle.
SEX RATIO AT BIRTH AND FAMILY COMPOSITION IN SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA: INTER-COUPLE VARIATIONS
Authors: GARENNE MICHEL
Published: October 2008

In this study, sex ratios at birth (male/female births) were found to vary according to family composition. Using Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) maternity histories from sub-Saharan Africa, the study shows that the sex ratio at birth increases with the number of previous male births and decreases with the number of previous female births. For families with only males, the sex ratio increases from 1·046 for the first birth to 1·083 for the 8th birth. For families with only females, the sex ratio decreases from 1·046 for the first birth to 0·942 for the 8th birth. The differences were highly significant when tested with a linear logistic model (p=0·018 for males; p=1·85✕10−11 for females). The effect was not symmetrical, and was found to be significantly stronger for females. These effects could be reproduced assuming a strong heterogeneity between couples. The distribution of sex ratios was fitted with an asymmetrical log-gamma function, which revealed a wide range of variation in the sex ratio between 0·50 and 1·30, and a peak around 1·14. The results and their implications are discussed in the light of former findings in France and in the United States of America.
Impact of total versus subtotal thyroidectomy on calcium metabolism and bone mineral density in premenopausal women
Authors: Tunca F , Senyurek Y G , Terzioglu T , Tanakol R , Tezelman S
Published: October 2008

Objective:

This study aimed to compare the impact of total versus subtotal thyroidectomy on calcium metabolism and bone mineral density in euthyroid, premenopausal women.

Subjects:

The study included 24 premenopausal women who had undergone total (n = 10) or subtotal (n = 14) thyroidectomy and who were receiving nonsuppressive doses of thyroxine. The median post-operative period was four years. We determined, in all patients, the following parameters associated with calcium metabolism: total serum calcium, inorganic phosphate, intact parathormone, calcitonin and alkaline phosphatase. The bone mineral density of the spine and hip were measured using a Hologic QDR 4500C bone densitometer and were compared with controls matched for age and peak bone mineral density (using the t-test).

Results:

The measured calcium metabolism parameters were normal in all patients, and none had osteoporosis. There was no significant difference in the bone mineral density measurements for the spine and hip, comparing patients who had undergone total versus subtotal thyroidectomy (using the t-test).

Conclusion:

The impact of total thyroidectomy on bone mineral metabolism is not significantly different from that of subtotal thyroidectomy, in premenopausal women with normal thyroid-stimulating hormone values.
Role of KTP-532 laser in management of oral submucous fibrosis
Authors: Nayak D R , Mahesh S G , Aggarwal D , Pavithran P , Pujary K , Pillai S
Published: October 2008

Introduction:

Oral submucous fibrosis is a chronic disease characterised by progressive inability to open the mouth. Various treatment modalities are available for its management, but these have largely been ineffective.

Materials and methods:

Nine cases of oral submucous fibrosis underwent a release procedure using a KTP-532 laser, from March 2005 to January 2006, within the ENT – head and neck surgery department of a tertiary centre.

Results:

Pre- and post-operative mouth-opening was compared using the Wilcoxon signed rank test, and a significant difference observed (Z = −2.690, p = 0.007). Follow up over an average period of 12 months showed encouraging results.

Conclusion:

This preliminary study indicated that adequate release of oral submucous fibrosis can be achieved by using a KTP-532 laser release procedure, with minimal morbidity and satisfactory results. These promising results should encourage more widespread use of this technique in the management of this condition.
18F-Fluorodeoxyglucose uptake in different histological subtypes of nasopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Chang M-C , Tsai S-C , Lin W-Y
Published: October 2008

Objective:

The study aimed to delineate the relationship between18F-fluorodeoxyglucose uptake and histological findings in nasopharyngeal carcinoma.

Methods:

We conducted a retrospective review of 88 patients referred to our positron emission tomography department with newly diagnosed, biopsy-proved nasopharyngeal carcinoma. Hospital records were reviewed for demographic and clinical data, including age, gender, body weight, histological analysis and clinical tumour stage.

Results:

Nineteen out of the 88 patients (22 per cent) had nasopharyngeal carcinoma of World Health Organization type I, 39 (44 per cent) had type II and 30 (34 per cent) had type III. The mean standardised uptake value for the primary tumour was 9.4 ± 5.0, ranging from 2.2 to 27.1. The mean standardised uptake values were 8.0 ± 3.9 for type I tumours, 9.7 ± 4.4 for type II tumours and 10.1 ± 6.3 for type III tumours (p = 0.451).

Conclusions:

Our study found that type III nasopharyngeal carcinoma exhibited a higher18F-fluorodeoxyglucose uptake than either type II or type I nasopharyngeal carcinoma. However, this difference was not statistically significant.
Post-operative problems and complications in 313 consecutive cochlear implantations
Authors: Ovesen T , Johansen L V
Published: October 2008

Objective:

To describe problems and complications associated with cochlear implantation, and their management, in a Danish patient population comprising both paediatric and adult patients.

Design:

Retrospective chart review.

Setting:

Tertiary referral centre.

Subjects:

Three hundred and thirteen consecutive cochlear implantations were studied. The median age of the study population was 10 years. Sixty per cent of patients were children and 40 per cent were adult; 52 per cent were female and 48 per cent were male.

Intervention:

Two hundred and ninety-four patients received a Cochlear Nucleus®implant. The remaining 19 received an Advanced Bionics implant.

Main outcome measure:

Presence of problems and complications after cochlear implantation.

Results:

Post-operative complications were found in 15.7 per cent of patients. The majority of these complications (11.2 per cent) were minor; 4.5 per cent were major. The major complications included one patient with meningitis, one patient with multiple antibiotic resistantStaphylococcus aureusinfection of a radical cavity, and one diabetic patient who developed a severe skin infection and whose implant became exposed.

Conclusion:

Cochlear implantation is a safe procedure within the studied setting. However, it is essential that careful attention be paid to surgical planning and technique, and it is important that healthcare staff and patients be aware of the possible problems and complications.
Cervical lymphadenopathy: scrofula revisited
Authors: Khan R , Harris S H , Verma A K , Syed A
Published: October 2008

Background:

The commonest form of extrapulmonary tuberculosis is tubercular cervical lymphadenitis, or scrofula.

Methods and results:

A total of 1827 patients with cervical lymphadenopathy who presented to various out-patients clinics of our institution were studied over a three-year period. Eight hundred and ninety-three (48.87 per cent) of these patients had lesions of tubercular origin. The most common observation was unilateral, matted adenopathy in female patients aged between 11 and 20 years and without constitutional symptoms of tuberculosis. Posterior triangle nodes were affected in 43.8 per cent of cases, followed by upper deep cervical nodes in 33.9 per cent. Fine needle aspiration cytology constituted the main diagnostic tool, with a positive yield in 90 per cent of patients. Polymerase chain reaction analysis was performed in 126 patients, with a sensitivity of 63 per cent. Only 18 per cent of patients had associated pulmonary tuberculosis, the rest having isolated involvement of cervical nodes. Medical treatment with anti-tubercular drugs for a period of six months formed the mainstay of treatment and cure. Surgical management was reserved for selected refractory patients.

Conclusion:

Tubercular cervical lymphadenitis can readily be diagnosed by fine needle aspiration cytology, a simple and cost-effective test. The disease can be cured completely by a short course of anti-tubercular chemotherapy, without surgical intervention.
‘A Mighty Adventure’: Institutionalising the Idea of Planning in Post-colonial India, 1947–60
Authors: KUDAISYA MEDHA
Published: October 2008

This essay examines the Indias' political leadership's romantic engagement with the idea of developmental planning in post-colonial India between 1947 and 1960. It looks at the experience of planning in India between 1947 and 1960. It explores some of the early ideas about developmental planning and the setting up of the Planning Commission in March 1950. Although there was widespread acceptance of the need for planning there was little consensus on the kind of planning that was required, or how it should be carried out. This essay examines attempts, which were made to institutionalise the planning idea. It looks at the heady ascent of the Planning Commission as the pre-eminent economic decision-making body in Independent India and the debates and contentions that took place in the early years of its formation. It argues that the 1956 foreign exchange crisis marked a climactic moment for planning. Thereafter, as far as economic decision-making was concerned, the locus of power shifted from the Planning Commission to other governmental agencies and the developmental planning process itself came to be over-shadowed by pragmatic economic management pursued by official agencies. Thus, in overall terms, developmental planning failed to establish strong institutional foundations in independent India and, in all this, the experience of the 1950s was formative.
The Local Experiences of Reformist Islam in a ‘Muslim’ Town in Colonial India: The Case of Amroha
Authors: JONES JUSTIN
Published: October 2008

This paper discusses shifts within Islamic life, ritual and practice in the town of Amroha in the United Provinces of India, during the eventful period of approximately 1860–1930. Based primarily upon Urdu writings produced about or by Muslim residents of the town during this period, it examines the ways in which wider religious reformist movements such as those associated with Aligarh, Deoband and Bareilly were received and experienced within nearby smaller, supposedly marginal urban settlements. The paper argues that broader currents of religious reform were not unquestioningly accepted in Amroha, but were often engaged in a constant process of dialogue and accommodation with local particularities. The first section introduces Amroha and itssharifMuslim population, focusing upon how the town's Islamic identity was defined and described. The second section examines a plethora of public religious rites and institutions emerging during this period, includingmadrasas andimambaras, discussing how these were used by eminent local families to reinforce distinctly local hierarchies and cultural particularities. A third section considers public debates in Amroha concerning the Aligarh movement, arguing that these debates enhanced local rivalries, especially those between Shia and Sunni Muslims. A final section interrogates the growing culture of religious disputation in the town, suggesting that such debate facilitated the negotiation of religious change in a transitory social environment.
The slippery slope: prediction of successful weight maintenance in anorexia nervosa
Authors: Kaplan A. S. , Walsh B. T. , Olmsted M. , Attia E. , Carter J. C. , Devlin M. J. , Pike K. M. , Woodside B. , Rockert W. , Roberto C. A. , Parides M.
Published: October 2008

Background

Previous research has found that many patients with anorexia nervosa (AN) are unable to maintain normal weight after weight restoration. The objective of this study was to identify variables that predicted successful weight maintenance among weight-restored AN patients.

Method

Ninety-three patients with AN treated at two sites (Toronto and New York) through in-patient or partial hospitalization achieved a minimally normal weight and were then randomly assigned to receive fluoxetine or placebo along with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for 1 year. Clinical, demographic and psychometric variables were assessed after weight restoration prior to randomization and putative predictors of successful weight maintenance at 6 and 12 months were examined.

Results

The most powerful predictors of weight maintenance at 6 and 12 months following weight restoration were pre-randomization body mass index (BMI) and the rate of weight loss in the first 28 days following randomization. Higher BMI and lower rate of weight loss were associated with greater likelihood of maintaining a normal BMI at 6 and 12 months. An additional predictor of weight maintenance was site; patients in Toronto fared better than those in New York.

Conclusions

This study found that the best predictors of weight maintenance in weight-restored AN patients over 6 and 12 months were the level of weight restoration at the conclusion of acute treatment and the avoidance of weight loss immediately following intensive treatment. These results suggest that outcome might be improved by achieving a higher BMI during structured treatment programs and on preventing weight loss immediately following discharge from such programs.
Aberrant functional connectivity of dorsolateral prefrontal and cingulate networks in patients with major depression during working memory processing
Authors: Vasic N. , Walter H. , Sambataro F. , Wolf R. C.
Published: October 2008

Background

In patients with major depressive disorder (MDD), functional neuroimaging studies have reported an increased activation of the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) during executive performance and working memory (WM) processing, and also an increased activation of the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) during baseline conditions. However, the functional coupling of these cortical networks during WM processing is less clear.

Method

In this study, we used a verbal WM paradigm, event-related functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and multivariate statistical techniques to explore patterns of functional coupling of temporally dissociable dorsolateral prefrontal and cingulate networks. By means of independent component analyses (ICAs), two components of interest were identified that showed either a positive or a negative temporal correlation with the delay period of the cognitive activation task in both healthy controls and MDD patients.

Results

In a prefronto-parietal network, a decreased functional connectivity pattern was identified in depressed patients comprising inferior parietal, superior prefrontal and frontopolar regions. Within this cortical network, MDD patients additionally revealed a pattern of increased functional connectivity in the left DLPFC and the cerebellum compared to healthy controls. In a second, temporally anti-correlated network, healthy controls exhibited higher connectivity in the ACC, the ventrolateral and the superior prefrontal cortex compared to MDD patients.

Conclusions

These results complement and expand previous functional neuroimaging findings by demonstrating a dysconnectivity of dissociable prefrontal and cingulate regions in MDD patients. A disturbance of these dynamic networks is characterized by a simultaneously increased connectivity of the DLPFC during task-induced activation and increased connectivity of the ACC during task-induced deactivation.
Interventionist causal models in psychiatry: repositioning the mind–body problem
Authors: Kendler K. S. , Campbell J.
Published: October 2008

Background

The diversity of research methods applied to psychiatric disorders results in a confusing plethora of causal claims. To help make sense of these claims, the interventionist model (IM) of causality has several attractive features. First, it connects causation with the practical interests of psychiatry, defining causation in terms of ‘what would happen under interventions’, a question of key interest to those of us whose interest is ultimately in intervening to prevent and treat illness. Second, it distinguishes between predictive-correlative and true causal relationships, an essential issue cutting across many areas in psychiatric research. Third, the IM is non-reductive and agnostic to issues of mind–body problem. Fourth, the IM model cleanly separates issues of causation from questions about the underlying mechanism. Clarifying causal influences can usefully structure the search for underlying mechanisms. Fifth, it provides a sorely needed conceptual rigor to multi-level modeling, thereby avoiding a return to uncritical holistic approaches that ‘everything is relevant’ to psychiatric illness. Sixth, the IM provides a clear way to judge both the generality and depth of explanations. In conclusion, the IM can provide a single, clear empirical framework for the evaluation of all causal claims of relevance to psychiatry and presents psychiatry with a method of avoiding the sterile metaphysical arguments about mind and brain which have preoccupied our field but yielded little of practical benefit.
Editorial
Authors: BURNARD PAMELA , SPRUCE GARY
Published: October 2008

Twenty-five years is a significant milestone in the life of the British Journal of Music Education (BJME). During this time, the relationship between educational research and the practice of teaching music has changed significantly. There has been increasing pressure on researchers to ensure that much more of their work is useful to teachers and to other practitioners. Ironically, the imperative on teachers has not been to draw upon this research to inform their practice, but rather to meet the demands of an increasing array of statutory and quasi-statutory edicts which urge compliance rather than exploration and reflection. In such a context it is the job of a journal such as the BJME to disseminate the latest research and thinking in music education which can be transformed into the knowledge that is needed by teachers and learners. Over the past 25 years, BJME has offered its readership an exploration of themes and imperatives that face researchers, teachers and policy makers.
Reflections on progress in musical education
Authors: Salaman William
Published: October 2008

This article raises questions about three features of musical education that have been explored in the pages of the British Journal of Music Education (BJME) over the last 25 years: the assessment of creative work; the nurturing of an elite among young musicians; the uses of electronics in music classrooms. The article suggests that teacher-based assessments of pupils' compositional work rarely promote deeper understanding because pupils learn better by considering the extent to which they have fulfilled their own musical intentions. The dilemma of serving the needs of all pupils while attending to the musical needs of the most gifted musically is explored, and it is suggested that, inter alia, pupils aged 12 should have a strong voice in their choices within arts education. Electronic keyboards have become sufficiently embedded in schools for broad judgements to be made. There are few signs that basic electronic keyboards offer expressive opportunities of value whereas the use of computers in support of composition have led to results of quality that merit close attention.
Reflections on my time as a joint editor
Authors: Spencer Piers
Published: October 2008

Piers Spencer and William Salaman edited the BJME between 1998 and 2002. During this period, a number of articles they published gave positive accounts of developments in instrumental teaching and learning, composing and creative music-making, and the increasing role of technology. Less happy findings emerged from investigations into singing and vocal work, into culture and the promotion of equal opportunities, and into the way the ‘official’ curriculum seemed to be increasingly at odds with students' experience of music outside schools. During his period as editor, Piers Spencer worked in a variety of institutions and his personal experience told him that, despite the highly critical tone of some contributions, there remains cause for optimism about the future of musical education, both in the UK and internationally.
The British Journal of Music Education 2003–2007: an editorial retrospective
Authors: Cox Gordon , Pitts Stephanie
Published: October 2008

The invitation to provide a review of the articles published in our five year editorship prompts us to evaluate the aims and purposes of music education research, and to consider the function of journals such as BJME in bridging the artificial divide between academics and professionals. We identify four themes that were prominent in the volumes we edited: the roles and identities of music teachers; pupil perspectives; blurring of boundaries between home, school and community; and music in higher education. Surveying articles related to these themes, we consider the questions they raise for future research, addressing the day-to-day realities of teaching alongside the exploration of new ideas which extend music education as a significant field of study.
Choosing music: exploratory studies into the low uptake of music GCSE
Authors: Lamont Alexandra , Maton Karl
Published: October 2008

School music has a comparatively low take-up rate as a qualification among English secondary school pupils. Existing research on the issue has proffered possible reasons for this phenomenon but has generally been piecemeal and undertheorised. This paper sets out a fresh theoretical perspective capable of providing a basis for systematic empirical research, and discusses the results of two exploratory studies. Drawing on legitimation code theory, a new approach in the sociology of education that focuses on the basis of achievement within educational contexts, the paper analyses National Curriculum, GCSE syllabi and pupils' attitudes towards a range of school subjects, including music. The documentary analysis highlights that earlier stages of the music curriculum emphasise either musical knowledge or musical dispositions of knowers, but music at GCSE level represents an ‘elite code’ where achievement depends upon both possessing specialist knowledge and being the right kind of knower. The study of pupils' attitudes suggests this code shift is recognised by pupils and may play a role in the low uptake of music for GCSE study. This new framework offers a firmer foundation for future empirical research into attitudes towards school subjects and subject choices.
The characteristics of action research in music education
Authors: Cain Tim
Published: October 2008

This review article discusses the use of action research in music education and its potential for producing knowledge and improving practice. The discussion is situated in an analysis of action research studies in music education. The review demonstrates that action research in music education focuses on a wide variety of subject matter, integrates research and action, is collaborative, grounded in a body of existing knowledge, and leads to powerful learning for the participants. However, few action research projects are cyclical, deal with aspects of social transformation, or broad historical, political or ideological contexts, and there is little focus on reflexivity. The review suggests that, in order to undertake high-quality action research, researchers need a good understanding of action research, a focused use of research literature and a defensible position with regard to data analysis and the generation of trustworthy findings.
From music student to professional: the process of transition
Authors: Creech Andrea , Papageorgi Ioulia , Duffy Celia , Morton Frances , Haddon Elizabeth , Potter John , de Bezenac Christophe , Whyton Tony , Himonides Evangelos , Welch Graham
Published: October 2008

This article addresses the question of whether higher education music courses adequately prepare young musicians for the critical transition from music undergraduate to professional. Thematic analyses of interviews with 27 undergraduate and portfolio career musicians representing four musical genres were compared. The evidence suggests that the process of transition into professional life for musicians across the four focus genres may be facilitated when higher education experiences include mentoring that continues after graduation, the development of strong multi-genre peer networks, the provision of many and varied performance opportunities and support for developing self-discipline and autonomy in relation to the acquisition of musical expertise. Implications for higher education curricula are discussed.