bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Age‐Related Differences in the Motivation of Learning English as a Foreign Language: Attitudes, Selves, and Motivated Learning Behavior
Authors: Kormos Judit , Csizér Kata
Published: April 2008

Our study describes the motivation for learning English as a foreign language in three distinct learner populations: secondary school pupils, university students, and adult language learners. Questionnaire data were collected from 623 Hungarian students. The main factors affecting students' second language (L2) motivation were language learning attitudes and the Ideal L2 self, which provides empirical support for the main construct of the theory of the L2 Motivational Self‐System (Dörnyei, 2005). Models of motivated behavior varied across the three investigated learner groups. For the secondary school pupils, it was interest in English‐language cultural products that affected their motivated behavior, whereas international posture as an important predictive variable was only present in the two older age groups.
Toward a Model of Motivated Vocabulary Learning: A Structural Equation Modeling Approach
Authors: Tseng Wen‐Ta , Schmitt Norbert
Published: April 2008

This study presents a structural model that integrates vocabulary knowledge and motivation with six latent variables: the initial appraisal of vocabulary learning experience, self‐regulating capacity of vocabulary learning, strategic vocabulary learning involvement, mastery of vocabulary learning tactics, vocabulary knowledge, and postappraisal of the effectiveness of vocabulary learning tactics. The model suggests that motivated vocabulary learning follows a developmental mode and functions as a cyclic process. The model supports the importance of motivation in the vocabulary learning process and the division of strategic behavior into two components: one frequency‐based and metacognitive in nature and the other focusing on the mastery of individual strategies (i.e., how well they are used).
Task Design and Second Language Performance: The Effect of Narrative Type on Learner Output
Authors: Tavakoli Parvaneh , Foster Pauline
Published: April 2008

This article presents a study examining how narrative structure and narrative complexity might influence the performance of second language learners. Forty learners of English in London and sixty learners in Teheran were asked to retell cartoon stories from picture prompts. Each performed two of four narrative tasks that had different degrees of narrative structure (loose or tight) and of storyline complexity (with or without background events). Results support the findings of previous research that tight task structure is connected to increased accuracy and that narratives involving background information give rise to more complex syntax. A comparison of the data from the London and Teheran cohorts showed that the learners in London used significantly more complex syntax and diverse vocabulary even though they did not differ from the Teheran learners in other performance dimensions.
PREPARING PERFORMANCE INFORMATION IN THE PUBLIC SECTOR: AN AUSTRALIAN PERSPECTIVE
Authors: Lee Janet
Published: April 2008

This paper examines performance information and reporting issues through a survey of the views of public sector managers in Australia regarding the importance of selected performance information in achieving the objectives of an organization, the extent of information development, usefulness for reporting in annual reports, and actual reporting. The results reveal the existence of a gap between information considered important, the extent of development, and information considered useful for annual reporting. Most non‐financial performance information is still being developed and less frequently reported, particularly output quality information.
Late adverse effects after soft X‐ray therapy of cutaneous malignancies: pruritus, burning, epiphora and insufficient occlusion of the mouth
Authors: Schulte K‐W , Auras C , Bramkamp G , Breitkopf C , Elsmann H‐J , Habenicht EM , Jasnoch V , Lippold A , Lösler A , Rupprecht R , Müller‐Pannes H , Suter L
Published: April 2008

Background  Pruritus, burning, epiphora and insufficient occlusion of the mouth have been less extensively studied than cosmetic changes in irradiated fields.

Objectives  How frequent are these late adverse effects? Do they usually occur permanently? Are they influenced by treatment and tumour parameters, sex and age of the patients?

Methods  Patients were interviewed at least once later than 90 days after soft X‐ray therapy.

Results  Pruritus has been reported in 18.5% of the interviews, burning in 7.7%, epiphora in 36.2% and insufficient occlusion of the mouth in 11.5%. Patients were usually not permanently troubled and irritated by these symptoms: pruritus more than once per week was reported in every interview for 0.6% of the fields, burning for 0.2%, epiphora for 6.4% and insufficient occlusion for 0%. Irritation by these symptoms has been stated in every interview for 5.1% of fields around the eye and for 1.4% of fields at other sites. Late pruritus, burning and epiphora were less frequently reported after irradiation with lower total doses, lower time–dose–fractionation factor (TDF) and by men. Patients older than 70 years of age experienced pruritus and burning less frequently. The largest diameter of the irradiated field influenced pruritus and the half value depth of the X‐rays influenced burning and epiphora.

Conclusions  Late pruritus, burning, epiphora and insufficient occlusion of the mouth do not considerably reduce the value of soft X‐ray therapy because these adverse effects usually are not experienced permanently. Total dose and TDF should not be chosen higher than necessary.
Novelty and conflict in the categorization of complex stimuli
Authors: Folstein Jonathan R. , Van Petten Cyma , Rose Scott A.
Published: April 2008

We manipulated categorical typicality and the presence of conflicting information as participants categorized multifeatured artificial animals. In Experiment 1, rule‐irrelevant features were correlated with particular categories during training. In the test phase, participants applied a one‐dimensional rule to stimuli with rule‐irrelevant features that were category‐congruent, category‐incongruent, or novel. Category‐incongruent and novel features delayed RT and P3 latency, but had no effect on the N2. Experiment 2 used a two‐dimensional rule to create conflict between rule‐relevant features. Conflict resulted in prolonged RTs and larger amplitudes of a prefrontal positive component, but had no impact on the N2. Stimuli with novel features did elicit a larger N2 than those with frequent features. These results suggest limitations on the generality of the N2's sensitivity to conflicting information while confirming its sensitivity to attended visual novelty.
Dietary sodium effects on heart rate variability in salt sensitivity of blood pressure
Authors: McNeely Jessica D. , Windham B. Gwen , Anderson David E.
Published: April 2008

High dietary sodium intake is a risk factor for hypertension, and heart rate variability (HRV) is decreased in hypertension. Effects of dietary sodium intake on HRV of normotensive persons have not, however, been investigated to date. The present study examined effects of low and high sodium diets on blood pressure, heart rate, and HRV in 36 healthy, normotensive women, ages 40–70. Each was placed on a low sodium diet for 6 days followed by a high sodium diet for 6 days. The high salt diet increased mean systolic blood pressure, decreased heart rate, and increased high frequency HRV (HF). Cardiac vagal tone, estimated at baseline from heart period and a time domain estimate of respiratory sinus arrhythmia, was higher in salt‐sensitive than salt‐insensitive subjects. The finding of increased vagal tone in normotensive persons on high salt intake indicates that dietary sodium status should be considered in behavioral studies of HRV.
Cathepsin L participates in the production of neuropeptide Y in secretory vesicles, demonstrated by protease gene knockout and expression
Authors: Funkelstein Lydiane , Toneff Thomas , Hwang Shin‐Rong , Reinheckel Thomas , Peters Christoph , Hook Vivian
Published: April 2008

Neuropeptide Y (NPY) functions as a peptide neurotransmitter and as a neuroendocrine hormone. The active NPY peptide is generated in secretory vesicles by proteolytic processing of proNPY. Novel findings from this study show that cathepsin L participates as a key proteolytic enzyme for NPY production in secretory vesicles. Notably, NPY levels in cathepsin L knockout (KO) mice were substantially reduced in brain and adrenal medulla by 80% and 90%, respectively. Participation of cathepsin L in producing NPY predicts their colocalization in secretory vesicles, a primary site of NPY production. Indeed, cathepsin L was colocalized with NPY in brain cortical neurons and in chromaffin cells of adrenal medulla, demonstrated by immunofluorescence confocal microscopy. Immunoelectron microscopy confirmed the localization of cathepsin L with NPY in regulated secretory vesicles of chromaffin cells. Functional studies showed that coexpression of proNPY with cathepsin L in neuroendocrine PC12 cells resulted in increased production of NPY. Furthermore, in vitroprocessing indicated cathepsin L processing of proNPY at paired basic residues. These findings demonstrate a role for cathepsin L in the production of NPY from its proNPY precursor. These studies illustrate the novel biological role of cathepsin L in the production of NPY, a peptide neurotransmitter, and neuroendocrine hormone.
Characterization of 13 polymorphic microsatellite loci for two land snail species, Trochulus villosus and T. sericeus (Gastropoda: Pulmonata: Hygromiidae)
Authors: DÉPRAZ A. , RATHEY E. , HAUSSER J.
Published: April 2008

Thirteen new microsatellite loci were isolated and tested on two land snail species, Trochulus villosus and T. sericeus (Pulmonata: Hygromiidae), resulting in a set of eight polymorphic markers for each species. The expected heterozygosity was high for all loci and species (between 0.616 and 0.944). Such levels of variability will allow detailed insights into the population genetic structure of some Trochulus species.
Measurement of Fracture Parameters for a Mixed‐Mode Crack Driven by Stress Waves using Image Correlation Technique and High‐Speed Digital Photography
Authors: Kirugulige M. S. , Tippur H. V.
Published: April 2008

Abstract:  Measurement of fracture parameters for a rapidly growing crack in syntactic foam sheets using image correlation technique and high‐speed photography is presented. The performance of a rotating mirror‐type multi‐channel high‐speed digital camera to measure transient deformations is assessed by conducting benchmark tests on image intensity variability, rigid translation and rigid rotation. Edge‐cracked foam samples are subjected to eccentric impact loading relative to the initial crack plane to produce mixed‐mode loading conditions in a three‐point bend configuration. High‐speed photography is used to record decorated random speckles in the vicinity of the crack tip at a rate of 200 000 frames per second. Two sets of images are recorded, the first set before impact and the second after impact. Using image correlation methodology, crack‐tip displacement field histories and dominant strains from the time of impact up to complete fracture are mapped. Over‐deterministic least‐squares analyses of crack‐tip radial and tangential displacements are used to obtain mixed‐mode fracture parameters. The measurements are compared with complementary finite element results. The fracture parameters determined from radial displacements seem more robust even when fewer number of higher order terms in the crack‐tip asymptotic expansion are used.
Polymetamorphic evolution of pelitic schists and evidence for Permian low‐pressure metamorphism in the Vepor Unit, West Carpathians
Authors: JEŘÁBEK P. , JANÁK M. , FARYAD S. W. , FINGER F. , KONEČNÝ P.
Published: April 2008

Phase equilibrium modelling and monazite microprobe dating were used to characterize the polymetamorphic evolution of metapelites from the northern part of the Vepor Unit, West Carpathians. Three generations of garnet and associated metamorphic assemblages found in these rocks correspond to three distinct metamorphic events related to the Variscan orogeny, a Permian phase of crustal extension and the Alpine orogeny. Variscan staurolite‐bearing and Alpine chloritoid‐bearing assemblages record medium‐temperature and medium‐pressure regional metamorphisms reaching 540–570 °C/5–7.5 kbar and 530–550 °C/5–6.5 kbar respectively. The Permian metamorphic assemblage involves garnet, andalusite, sillimanite, biotite, muscovite, plagioclase and corundum and locally forms silica‐undersaturated andalusite‐biotite‐spinel coronas around older staurolite. The transition from andalusite to sillimanite indicates a prograde low‐pressure and medium‐temperature metamorphism characterized by temperature increase from 500 to 650 °C at ∼3 kbar. As accessory monazite is abundant in the rocks, an attempt was made to derive its age of formation by means of electron microprobe‐based Th‐U‐Pb chemical dating. Despite the polymetamorphic nature of the metapelites, the monazite yielded uniform Permian ages. Microstructures confirm that monazite was formed in relation to the low‐pressure and medium‐temperature paragenesis, and the weighted average ages obtained for two different samples are 278 ± 5 and 275 ± 12 Ma respectively. The virtual lack of Variscan and Alpine monazite populations points to interesting aspects concerning the growth systematics of monazite in metamorphic rocks.
Insurance on the Internet
Authors: Klauber Adam
Published: April 2008

ABSTRACT: The Internet is obviously a force that is here to stay. Every segment of the economy is experiencing dramatic change and is having to respond to shifts in the value chain, enhanced consumer power, and altered competitive cycles. Although the insurance industry has characteristics that should put it at the forefront of Internet adoption, certain cultural and technological factors could continue to limit penetration in the near term.

Four strategic business models emerging from the competitive field are: marketplace/exchange, work‐site marketing, transaction processor, and eyeball attractor. This article identifies the factors for success within each model, then provides a competitor analysis to grade insurance e‐commerce organizations on various competencies from Web site functionality to insurance capabilities.
SIGNIFICANT DEVELOPMENTS IN MOTOR INSURANCE IN THAILAND
Authors: Lawrence Brian
Published: April 2008

ABSTRACT: The 1990s saw rapid economic growth in Thailand. Motor insurance grew enormously, becoming the biggest income earner for total general business (both for the whole industry and for many individual companies). Cash flow underwriting seemed to be the recipe for success in a competitive market.

The agency distribution system for motor insurance in Thailand is almost wholly controlled by finance companies and banks, which expect a high rate of commission. Their delay in paying over the premiums to the insurers created bad‐debt problems after the 1997 economic crash, when the government closed many of these financing companies. This also meant an end to the motor insurance boom, with a decrease in premium income and a reduction in investment returns and assets, thus threatening solvency margins.

Earlier in the decade, in 1993, there was the introduction of compulsory third‐party insurance, followed by the establishment by the government of provincial bureaus to help these third‐party claimants. And in 2000, just in time for the next wave of economic growth, a new rating system has been introduced to bring sophistication to the basic process of evaluating and pricing different risks, though still within a government tariff system. Liberalization is coming, in stages, and the industry is making changes so as to be in a fit state to cope with the increased competition and opportunities that this liberalization will bring.

Like all setbacks, the crash of 1997 was an opportunity for Thai motor insurers to examine the fundamentals of their business and plan to increase their professionalism. Some are already well on the way to high‐quality service, meeting ISO 9002 standards, and have begun Internet trading.
REGULATORY NEGOTIATION IN AUTOMOBILE INSURANCE REFORM
Authors: Miller Shelley L.
Published: April 2008

Tort reform of the motor accident insurance compensation scheme in the Australian state of New South Wales in 1999 came about as a result of an untested experiment in regulatory negotiation. This article is a first‐hand account of the successful attempt to craft a consensual modification of the scheme through deliberations among a working group of service provider representatives. The author, a Canadian lawyer, investigated the prospects for change, acted as chief negotiator, and observed the legislative process that led to the final law reform.
The Effect of Yttrium on Oxygen Grain‐Boundary Transport in Polycrystalline Alumina Measured Using Ni Marker Particles
Authors: Cheng Huikai , Dillon Shen J. , Caram Hugo S. , Rickman Jeffrey M. , Chan Helen M. , Harmer Martin P.
Published: April 2008

The grain‐boundary transport of oxygen in polycrystalline α‐Al2O3 (undoped and 500 ppm Y3+‐doped) was studied in the temperature regime of 1100°–1500°C by monitoring the oxidation of a fine, uniform dispersion of Ni marker particles (0.5 vol%). The annealing treatments were carried out in a high‐purity O2 atmosphere (>99.5%). The Ni particles, which are visibly oxidized to nickel aluminate spinel, were used to determine the depth of oxygen penetration. The thickness of the reaction zone was measured as a function of heat‐treatment time and temperature, and a comparison of the oxidation rate constants and activation energies for undoped and Y3+‐doped alumina was made. The results indicate that the presence of Y3+ slows oxygen grain‐boundary transport in alumina by a variable factor of from 15 to 3 in the temperature regime of 1100°–1500°C. The values of the activation energy for undoped and Y3+‐doped alumina were determined to be 430±40 and 497±8 kJ/mol, respectively.
Mixed‐Valence Perovskite Thin Films by Polymer‐Assisted Deposition
Authors: Jain Menka , Bauer Eve , Ronning Filip , Hundley Michael F. , Civale Leonardo , Wang Haiyan , Maiorov Boris , Burrell Anthony K. , McClesky Thomas M. , Foltyn Stephen R. , DePaula Raymond F. , Jia Quanxi
Published: April 2008

In thin films of rare‐earth manganites, RE1−xMxMnO3 (RE=rare earth, M=Ca, Sr, Ba), with mixed‐valence perovskite structure, the transport properties highly depend on the deposition technique, processing conditions, and the substrate used. Chemical solution deposition techniques provide many advantages, such as low cost, easy setup, and coating of large areas. However, the crystalline quality, uniformity, and reproducibility of the film depend on the reactivity of the chemical used for solution preparation. In this paper, we report a novel process to grow rare‐earth manganite films using low‐cost polymer‐assisted deposition technique. In this process, polymer controls the viscosity and binds metal ions, resulting in a homogeneous distribution of metal precursors in the solution and a uniform film. These solutions were stable, and crack‐free films were obtained using these solutions. In this paper, thin films of La1−xSrxMnO3, La1−xCaxMnO3, and Pr0.5Ca0.5MnO3 were grown on (001) LaAlO3 substrates. The La1−xSrxMnO3 and La1−xCaxMnO3 films were highly c‐axis oriented and epitaxial, and showed high magnetoresistance near their Curie temperature. Charge ordering was observed in the Pr0.5Ca0.5MnO3 film at 220 K and high magnetoresistance of nearly −100% was obtained at low temperatures. The structural, transport, and magnetic properties of these films were similar to those obtained for films grown by physical vapor deposition.
Arousability in schizophrenia: relationship to emotional and physiological reactivity and symptom severity
Authors: Dinzeo T. J. , Cohen A. S. , Nienow T. M. , Docherty N. M.
Published: April 2008

Objective:  Socioenvironmental stressors have been linked with increased symptom severity and relapse in those with schizophrenia. However, little is known about how individual differences in stress reactivity may contribute to these outcomes.

Method:  This study examined the association between the temperament characteristic of arousability and changes in negative affect and cardiovascular activity during a challenge task in 58 in‐patients with diagnosis of schizophrenia and 21 controls.

Results:  In the patient group, levels of arousability were significantly associated with increases in negative affect in response to the task and greater severity of affective symptoms. Levels of arousability were associated with decreased heart rate during the challenge task in our patient group.

Conclusion:  These findings suggest that greater attention be given to individual differences, such as temperament and personality characteristics, and their role in the experience of stressors, including emotional and physiological response, as well as symptom development.
Searching for foreign antigens as possible triggering factors of autoimmunity: Torque Teno virus DNA prevalence is elevated in sera of patients with bullous pemphigoid
Authors: Blazsek Antal , Sillo Palma , Ishii Norito , Gergely Jr Peter , Poor Gyula , Preisz Klaudia , Hashimoto Takashi , Medvecz Márta , Kárpáti Sarolta
Published: April 2008

Objective:  The Torque Teno virus (TTV), a member of virus genus Anellovirus has been shown to be commonly present in humans, yet without detectable pathogenicity. Recent studies imply that TTV may contribute to provoke autoimmune progresses in systemic lupus erythematosus and idiopathic inflammatory myopathies. We aimed to study the presence of TTV in a group of patients with autoimmune bullous diseases with a further goal to identify long‐lasting foreign antigen, such as TTV as possible triggers of skin‐specific autoimmunity.

Patients and methods:  We performed in silico research to study similarities between known TTV sequences and antigens of bullous pemphigoid (BP), pemphigus vulgaris (PV) and dermatitis herpetiformis (DH). Basic Local Alignment Search Tool results showed matching regions for the major BP antigens BP180 and BP230, PV antigen desmoglein 3 and DH antigen transglutaminase 3 and disclosed overlapping, antigen‐predicted sequences only for BP180 regions. We also assessed the prevalence of TTV in these disorders and compared them with the results from two healthy blood donor groups (group 1: sex‐ and age‐matched for the general bullous group, n = 95; group 2: sex‐ and age‐matched for BP, n = 50). Furthermore, we assayed lymphocytes from four TTV DNA and BP180 NC16A blot‐positive BP patients and three controls in a standard lymphocyte transformation test with a TTV peptide from the conserved ORF(Open Reading Frame)1/N22 region.

Results:  We found that the detection rate of TTV was comparable with that in healthy controls in the group of PV (19/33); whereas detection rates in DH showed a slight, but not significant tendency for elevation (17/20). Contrary, the TTV prevalence in BP patients was significantly elevated (group 1: 36/40 vs group 2: 31/50, P < 0.032). Lymphocytes from all four virus‐positive BP patients heavily reacted to TTV peptide while two of the three healthy controls have shown not to recognize the viral sequences. Only the TTV carrier healthy control had a minor reaction at lowest peptide concentration. The combined in silico, polymerse chain reaction and in vitro cell assay data of the present study indicate that a TTV persistence may contribute to the pathogenesis of BP.
Melatonin represses oxidative stress‐induced activation of the MAP kinase and mTOR signaling pathways in H4IIE hepatoma cells through inhibition of Ras
Authors: Kimball Scot R. , Abbas Ahmed , Jefferson Leonard S.
Published: April 2008

Abstract:  Reactive oxygen species (ROS) have been implicated in the pathogenesis of a variety of diseases, and antioxidant treatment is currently being investigated as a potential therapy to attenuate the detrimental effects of ROS‐mediated oxidative stress. Melatonin is a potent naturally produced antioxidant, which acts through various mechanisms to ameliorate the toxic effects of ROS. However, little is known about the mechanisms of signaling pathways through which melatonin acts to reverse the effects of ROS. In the present study, the effect of melatonin treatment on the hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)‐induced activation of the mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathways was assessed in H4IIE hepatoma cells. It was found that melatonin strongly attenuated H2O2‐induced activation of the ERK1/2 and p38 MAP kinases, as well as several of their downstream targets. Melatonin also attenuated the H2O2‐induced phosphorylation of Akt and the Akt substrate mTOR, as well as a downstream target of mTOR action, 4E‐BP1. Upregulation of ERK1/2, p38, and Akt signaling by H2O2 was accompanied by activation of Ras, an effect that was blocked by melatonin. Overall, the results suggest that melatonin acts to prevent many of the H2O2‐induced alterations in the MAPK and mTOR signaling pathways through inhibition of Ras, at least in H4IIE hepatoma cells.
Melatonin accelerates the process of wound repair in full‐thickness incisional wounds
Authors: Pugazhenthi Kamali , Kapoor Mohit , Clarkson Andrew N. , Hall Irene , Appleton Ian
Published: April 2008

Abstract:  The pineal gland hormone melatonin is known to have both anti‐inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects. Given this, we propose that melatonin is an ideal candidate to enhance the process of wound healing. The present study assessed the effects of exogenously administered melatonin (1.2 mg/kg intra‐dermal), on scar formation using a full‐thickness incisional rat model of dermal wound healing. Melatonin treatment significantly improved the quality of scarring, both in terms of maturity and orientation of collagen fibres. An increase in nitric oxide synthase (NOS) activity and therefore nitric oxide production is detrimental during inflammation but is favourable during granulation tissue formation. Melatonin treatment significantly decreased inducible NOS (iNOS) activity during the acute inflammatory phase but significantly increased iNOS activity during the resolving phase. Cyclooxygenase‐2, which has been shown to have anti‐inflammatory effects, was elevated in the melatonin‐treated rats following wounding. In addition, melatonin treatment also accelerated the angiogenic process, increasing the formation of new blood vessels and elevating the level of vascular endothelial growth factor protein expression during granulation tissue formation. Melatonin treatment increased arginase activity (which generates proline, a building block for collagen synthesis) from earlier time points. The protein profiles of hemoxygenase‐1 (HO‐1) and HO‐2 isoforms, vital participants in the repair process, were also up‐regulated upon melatonin treatment. This study has therefore demonstrated, for the first time, that melatonin can significantly improve the quality of wound healing and scar formation.
In vitro antioxidant activity and in vivo efficacy of topical formulations containing vitamin C and its derivatives studied by non‐invasive methods
Authors: Maia Campos Patrícia M. B. G. , Gonçalves Gisele M. S. , Gaspar Lorena R.
Published: April 2008

Background/purpose: Vitamins C and its derivatives, mainly due to their antioxidant properties, are being used in cosmetic products to protect and to reduce the signs of ageing. However, there are no studies comparing the effects of vitamin C [ascorbic acid (AA)] and its derivatives, magnesium ascorbyl phosphate (MAP) and ascorbyl tetra‐isopalmitate (ATIP), when vehiculated in topical formulations, mainly using objective measurements, which are an important tool in clinical efficacy studies. Thus, the objective of this study was to determine the in vitro antioxidant activity of AA and its derivatives, MAP and ATIP, as well as their in vivo efficacy on human skin, when vehiculated in topical formulations.

Methods: The study of antioxidant activity in vitro was performed with an aqueous and a lipid system. The in vivo methodology consisted of the application of these formulations on human volunteers' forearm skin and the analysis of the skin conditions after 4‐week period daily applications in terms of transepidermal water loss (TEWL), stratum corneum moisture content and viscoelasticity using a Tewameter®, Corneometer® and Cutometer®, respectively.

Results: In vitro experiments demonstrated that in an aqueous system, AA had the best antioxidant potential, and MAP was more effective than ATIP, whereas in the lipid system ATIP was more effective than MAP. In in vivo studies, all formulations enhanced stratum corneum moisture content after a 4‐week period daily applications when compared with baseline values; however, only the formulation containing AA caused alterations in TEWL values. The formulations containing MAP caused alterations in the viscoelastic‐to‐elastic ratio, which suggested its action in the deeper layers of the skin.

Conclusion: AA and its derivates presented an in vitro antioxidant activity but AA had the best antioxidant effect. In in vivo efficacy studies, only the formulation containing AA caused alterations in TEWL values and the formulation containing MAP caused alterations in the viscoelastic‐to‐elastic ratio. This way, vitamin C derivatives did not present the same effects of AA on human skin; however, MAP showed other significant effect‐improving skin hydration, which is very important for the normal cutaneous metabolism and also to prevent skin alterations and early ageing.
Self‐reported oral health perceptions of Somali adults in Minnesota: a pilot study
Authors: Okunseri C , Hodges JS , Born DO
Published: April 2008

Abstract:  Objective:  To assess self‐reported oral health perceptions and associated factors in an adult Somali population living in Minnesota, USA.

Methods:  We analysed data from a cross‐sectional study of Somali adults aged 18 to 65+ years attending a dental school clinic for care. A comprehensive oral examination was performed by the dental school outreach team on all patients who attended a 2‐week designated Somali dental clinic. Adults who consented were given an oral health questionnaire to collect information on sociodemographics, marital status, language preference and self‐rated oral and general health. We performed summary statistics and differences between proportions using Fisher’s exact test and a comparison of means using one‐way anova or a two‐sample t‐test.

Results:  The sample consisted of 53 adults, 75% of whom were females. About 49% of subjects reported poor/fair oral health and 38% reported poor/fair general health. Seventy‐four percent rated their access to dental care as poor/fair and 83% reported that they did not have a regular source of dental care. Self‐rated oral health was significantly associated with marital status (P < 0.05) and self‐rated general health (P < 0.01) using Fisher’s exact test.

Conclusion:  A substantial proportion of Somali adults rated their oral health and access to dental care as poor/fair. These findings suggest that this population would benefit from improved access to oral health care and culturally appropriate oral health education and promotion programs.
Till Marriage Do Us Part: Adult Children’s Relationships With Their Parents
Authors: Sarkisian Natalia , Gerstel Naomi
Published: April 2008

Although some emphasize the integrative character of marriage, others argue that marriage undermines relations with extended kin, including aging parents. Utilizing NSFH data (N= 6,108), we find that married women and men have less intense intergenerational ties than the never married and the divorced: The married are less likely to live with parents, stay in touch, and give or receive emotional, financial, and practical help. These differences hold even when we control for structural characteristics, including time demands, needs and resources, and demographic and extended family characteristics. We conclude that marriage is a greedy institution for both women and men. Given the inadequacy of structural explanations, we suggest that cultural explanations for this greediness should be explored.
Factors Associated With Multiple‐Partner Fertility Among Fathers
Authors: Manlove Jennifer , Logan Cassandra , Ikramullah Erum , Holcombe Emily
Published: April 2008

This article uses a sample of 1,731 fathers aged 16 – 45 from the 2002 National Survey of Family Growth to identify factors associated with multiple‐partner fertility. Almost one third of fathers who reported multiple‐partner fertility did so across a series of nonmarital relationships, and nonmarital‐only multiple‐partner fertility has been increasing across recent cohorts of men. Being older, having a first sexual experience or a first child at a young age, and fathering a child outside of marriage or cohabitation are associated with greater odds of multiple‐partner fertility, whereas having additional children with the first birth mother is associated with reduced odds. Black, Hispanic, and young fathers have especially high odds of experiencing multiple‐partner fertility across a series of nonmarital relationships.
Identification in the yeast Pichia stipitis of the first l‐rhamnose‐1‐dehydrogenase gene
Authors: Koivistoinen Outi M. , Hilditch Satu , Voutilainen Sanni P. , Boer Harry , Penttilä Merja , Richard Peter
Published: April 2008

There are two distinctly different pathways for the catabolism of l‐rhamnose in microorganisms. One pathway with phosphorylated intermediates was described in bacteria; here the enzymes and the corresponding gene sequences are known. The other pathway has no phosphorylated intermediates and has only been described in eukaryotic microorganisms. For this pathway, the enzyme activities have been described but not the corresponding gene sequences. The first enzyme in this catabolic pathway is the NAD‐utilizing l‐rhamnose 1‐dehydrogenase. The enzyme was purified from the yeast Pichia stipitis, and the mass of its tryptic peptides was determined using MALDI‐TOF MS. This enabled the identification of the corresponding gene, RHA1. It codes for a protein with 258 amino acids belonging to the protein family of short‐chain alcohol dehydrogenases. The ORF was expressed in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. As the gene contained a CUG codon that codes for serine in P. stipitis but for leucine in S. cerevisiae, this codon has changed so that the same amino acid was expressed in S. cerevisiae. The heterologous protein showed the highest activity and affinity with l‐rhamnose and a lower activity and affinity with l‐mannose and l‐lyxose. The enzyme was specific for NAD. A northern blot analysis revealed that transcription in P. stipitis is induced during growth on l‐rhamnose but not on other carbon sources.
Identification and functional characterization of an aggregation domain in long myosin light chain kinase
Authors: Zhang Wen‐Cheng , Peng Ya‐Jing , He Wei‐Qi , Lv Ning , Chen Chen , Zhi Gang , Chen Hua‐Qun , Zhu Min‐Sheng
Published: April 2008

The functions of long smooth muscle myosin light chain kinase (L‐MLCK), a molecule with multiple domains, are poorly understood. To examine the existence of further potentially functional domains in this molecule, we analyzed its amino acid sequence with a tango program and found a putative aggregation domain located at the 4Ig domain of the N‐terminal extension. To verify its aggregation capability in vitro, expressible truncated L‐MLCK variants driven by a cytomegalovirus promoter were transfected into cells. As anticipated, only the overexpression of the 4Ig fragment led to particle formation in Colon26 cells. These particles contained 4Ig polymers and actin. Analysis with detergents demonstrated that the particles shared features in common with aggregates. Thus, we conclude that the 4Ig domain has a potent aggregation ability. To further examine this aggregation domain in vivo, eight transgenic mouse lines expressing the 4Ig domain (4Ig lines) were generated. The results showed that the transgenic mice had typical aggregation in the thigh and diaphragm muscles. Histological examination showed that 7.70 ± 1.86% of extensor digitorum longus myofibrils displayed aggregates with a 36.44% reduction in myofibril diameter, whereas 65.13 ± 3.42% of diaphragm myofibrils displayed aggregates and the myofibril diameter was reduced by 43.08%. Electron microscopy examination suggested that the aggregates were deposited at the mitochondria, resulting in structural impairment. As a consequence, the oxygen consumption of mitochondria in the affected muscles was also reduced. Macrophenotypic analysis showed the presence of muscular degeneration characterized by a reduction in force development, faster fatigue, decreased myofibril diameters, and structural alterations. In summary, our study revealed the existence of a novel aggregation domain in L‐MLCK and provided a direct link between L‐MLCK and aggregation. The possible significance and mechanism underlying the aggregation‐based pathological processes mediated by L‐MLCK are also discussed.
In vivo degradation of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) and heat shock protein 90 (HSP90) by calpain is modulated by the formation of a NOS–HSP90 heterocomplex
Authors: Averna Monica , Stifanese Roberto , De Tullio Roberta , Salamino Franca , Pontremoli Sandro , Melloni Edon
Published: April 2008

We have shown previously that isolated heat shock protein 90 (HSP90) and nitric oxide synthase (NOS), once associated in a heterocomplex, become completely resistant to calpain digestion. In this study, it is shown that, in vivo, under conditions of calpain activation, the protection of NOS degradation occurs. In addition, the extent of NOS degradation is a function of the level of HSP90 expression. Thus, in rat brain, which contains a large excess of HSP90, almost all neuronal NOS is associated with the chaperone protein. In this condition, neuronal NOS retains its full catalytic activity, although limited proteolytic conversion to still active low‐molecular‐mass (130 kDa) products takes place. In contrast, in aorta, which contains much smaller amounts of HSP90, endothelial NOS is not completely associated with the chaperone, and undergoes extensive degradation with a loss of protein and catalytic activity. On the basis of these findings, we propose a novel role of the HSP90–NOS heterocomplex in protecting in vivo NOS from proteolytic degradation by calpain. The efficiency of this effect is directly related to the level of intracellular HSP90 expression, generating a high HSP90 to NOS ratio, which favours both the formation and stabilization of the HSP90–NOS heterocomplex. This condition seems to occur in rat brain, but not in aorta, thus explaining the higher vulnerability to proteolytic degradation of endothelial NOS relative to neuronal NOS.
Review article: Non‐invasive assessment of cardiac output with portable continuous‐wave Doppler ultrasound
Authors: Meyer Sascha , Todd David , Wright Ian , Gortner Ludwig , Reynolds Graham
Published: April 2008

Cardiac output is considered an important parameter when assessing the cardiovascular status of a critically ill patient. Both non‐invasive (e.g. bioimpedance, echocardiography) and invasive methods (Swan Ganz catheter) have been used to measure cardiac output. The ultrasonic cardiac output monitoring device provides a new method of non‐invasively assessing cardiac output in various clinical settings. The ultrasonic cardiac output monitoring device was introduced clinically in 2001, and appears to be a promising adjunct in the assessment of the cardiovascular state in a variety of patient cohorts. In this short review article, we will introduce this new technique, discuss the required skills and compare it with methods already in use. In particular, a critical comparison with the ‘gold standard’, the invasive measurement of cardiac output with the pulmonary artery catheter, will be given.
Socioeconomic Status, Not Race/Ethnicity, Contributes to Variation in the Prevalence of Erectile Dysfunction: Results from the Boston Area Community Health (BACH) Survey
Authors: Kupelian Varant , Link Carol L. , Rosen Raymond C. , McKinlay John B.
Published: April 2008

Introduction

Few population-based studies have assessed variations in the burden of erectile dysfunction (ED) by race/ethnicity.

Aim

To estimate prevalence rates of ED by race/ethnicity and determine the contribution of behavioral risk factors, chronic illnesses, and socioeconomic factors to potential race/ethnic differences in ED.

Methods

The Boston Area Community Health (BACH) Survey is a study of urologic symptoms in a racially and ethnically diverse population. BACH used a multistage stratified random sample to recruit 2,301 men aged 30–79 years from the city of Boston. Self-reported race/ethnicity was defined as Black, Hispanic, and White. Socioeconomic status (SES) was defined as a combination of education and household income.

Main Outcome Measures

ED assessed using the 5-item International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5). IIEF-5 scores were used both as a continuous variable and dichotomized as ≤16 vs. ≥17.

Results

Overall prevalence of ED (defined as an IIEF-5 score ≤16) was 20.7% with higher prevalence observed among both Black men (24.9%) and Hispanic men (25.3%) compared to White men (18.1%). Increased odds of ED were observed for both Black and Hispanic men after adjusting for age, comorbid conditions (cardiovascular disease, diabetes, depression), and behavioral risk factors (smoking, physical activity, alcohol use). After controlling for the effect of SES, the association between race/ethnicity and ED disappeared. In contrast, men in the low SES category had an over two-fold increase in risk of ED (adjusted odds ratio of 2.26, 95% confidence interval 1.39, 3.66).

Conclusions

The increased risk of ED in Black and Hispanic men is associated with differences in SES rather than differences in known risk factors of ED.
THE DETECTION OF CUCUMBER MOSAIC VIRUS IN SINGLE APHIDS
Authors: Zhou Shijun , Shen Zuorui , Li Huaifang , Guan Zhihe
Published: April 2008

Abstract  Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV) was detected in single aphids Myzus persicae and Aphis gossy pii by dot immunobinding assay (DIBA). The DIB A procedure with the lowest detectable concentration endpoint of 0.16ng/ml of purified CMV, or 0. 32pg per sample dot of 2μI antigens, satisfied the sensitivity required for the detection of CMV in single virus‐carrying aphids. The aphid extracting method of dipping the stylets dissected from aphid heads in the droplets of small volume (2–5p1) of suitable buffer not only ensured the highly concentrated Firuses fully released from the aphid stylets, but decreased the interference of non‐virus materials from aphids to minimum as well, and thus overcame the two major difficulties in the detection of plant viruses in vectors. The virus‐carrying rates tested by DIBA had good coincidence with the transmission rates by bioassay. Undoubtedly, such breakthroughs in the technique of detecting nonpersistent viruses in aphid vectors are of great epidemiological importance.
THE GENUS ALLORHINOCORIS REUTER FROM CHINA (HEMIPTERA: MIRIDAE)
Authors: Lu Nan , Zhang Yuanlin
Published: April 2008

Abstract  In this paper the mirine genus Allorhinocoris Reuter is reported for the first time in China. Two species are included: A. flavus J. Sahlberg 1878 is recorded from Xinjiang, A. chinensis Lu. sp. nov. is described from Gansu, Shanxi and Hebei. A key to the Chinese species is appended.
INSECTICIDE RESISTANCE OF COTTON APHID IN NORTH CHINA
Authors: Sun Yunqin , Feng Guolei , Yuan Jiagui , Gong Kunyuan
Published: April 2008

Abstract  The cotton aphid (Aphis gossypii Glover) is one of the most important pests infesting cotton in the cotton areas of North China. Since 1953 organophosphorus insecticides such as parathion and systox have been used to control the aphids for keeping up good yield of cotton. After several years. the concentration and the amount of spray were increasing in the field. In the early 1980's highly effective pyrethroid insecticides such as decis and sumicidin were largely imported into China. When first used 2. 5% decis emulsion was diluted in the ratio from 1:10000 to 1: 12000. However in 1985 the resistance of cotton aphid to pyrethroids increased by 171 times in general, 3230 times in some cotton fields. Thus it has prompted us to investigate the mechanism of resistance to insecticides and to search for the strategy to control the resistant aphids.

Experiments showed that the use of synergists including SV1 (O, O‐diethyl, O‐phenyl phos‐phorothionate) and PB has given evidence indicating mixed function oxidases (MFO). α‐NA esterases and α‐NA carboxylesterase are involved in the formation of resistance. The results also showed that the sensitivity of AChE to paraoxon in resistant aphids was lower than that in susceptible aphids.

Experiments showed that SV1 was particularly synergistic to organophosphorus or pyrethroid insecticides and had played an excellent role in overcoming the resistance of cotton aphids to insecticides.
THE EFFECT OF TWO FODDER PLANTS ON THE PERFORMANCE OF THE JAPANESE OAK SILKWORM, ANTHERAEA YAMAMAI
Authors: Hu Cui , Ye Gongyin
Published: April 2008

Abstract  The Japanese oak silkworm, Antheraea yamami, is a precious wild silkworm. Through comparing survival rate, stadium, bodyweight, nutritional indexes, coconing rate and cocoon quality of the larvae reared on Quercus fabri fresh leaves with those on Q. acutissima, it was concluded that Q. fabri is a better fodder plant for this silkworm than Q. acutissima in East China.
MULTIDIMENSIONAL ANALYSIS OF RESOURCE UTILIZATION IN ASSEMBLAGES OF RANGELAND GRASSHOPPERS (ORTHOPTERA: ACRIDIDAE)
Authors: Kang Le , Chen Yonglin
Published: April 2008

Abstract  A study was conducted in a typical steppe area in central Inner Mongolia to determine resource utilization in time, space, and food by grasshopper assemblages. Pattern of use for these resources was analyzed from three vegetation types by examining species‐specific niche breadths, overlaps and partitions of resource utilization as well as population sizes. Popular niche indices and the principal components analysis (PCA) procedure were used to indicate the interrelations among grasshopper species. In the heterogeneous grassland environments resulting from livestock grazing, eleven grasshopper species were categorized respectively based on the 3‐dimensional niche segregation and overlap degree. Population sizes were determined by the calorific values of their realized population biomass. Comparison in niche breadth displayed that species which had a broad niche along one dimension at least had a narrow niche along another one. There were sufficient differences between species for overall overlap associated with resource use to explain coexistence in the assemblages by resource segregation. Distinct rule of niche complementarity in overlap was not found. Evidence from this study implied that the species‐specific use of resource may be due primarily to grasshopper adaptive differentiation and to coevolutionary interactions between grasshopper and plant rather than interspecific competition among grasshopper species.
GENUS ZANCHIUS DISTANT (HEMIPTERA: MIRIDAE) OF CHINA
Authors: Liu Guoqing , Zheng Leyi
Published: April 2008

Abstract  This paper lists the known species of Zanchius from China and describes a Lew species, Zanchius rubidus Liu et Zheng found from Mount Wuling, Hebei Province, China. Type specimens are deposited in the Nankai University, Tianjin.