bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Representation of speech categories in the primate auditory cortex
Authors: Tsunada Joji , Lee Jung Hoon , Cohen Yale E.
Published: February 2011

A “ventral” auditory pathway in nonhuman primates that originates in the core auditory cortex and ends in the prefrontal cortex is thought to be involved in components of nonspatial auditory processing. Previous work from our laboratory has indicated that neurons in the prefrontal cortex reflect monkeys' decisions during categorical judgments. Here, we tested the role of the superior temporal gyrus (STG), a region of the secondary auditory cortex that is part of this ventral pathway, during similar categorical judgments. While monkeys participated in a match-to-category task and reported whether two consecutive auditory stimuli belonged to the same category or to different categories, we recorded spiking activity from STG neurons. The auditory stimuli were morphs of two human-speech sounds ( bad and dad). We found that STG neurons represented auditory categories. However, unlike activity in the prefrontal cortex, STG activity was not modulated by the monkeys' behavioral reports (choices). This finding is consistent with the anterolateral STG's role as a part of functional circuit involved in the coding, representation, and perception of the nonspatial features of an auditory stimulus.
Postural adjustments for online corrections of arm movements in standing humans
Authors: Leonard Julia A. , Gritsenko Valeriya , Ouckama Ryan , Stapley Paul J.
Published: February 2011

The aim of this study was to investigate how humans correct ongoing arm movements while standing. Specifically, we sought to understand whether the postural adjustments in the legs required for online corrections of arm movements are predictive or rely on feedback from the moving limb. To answer this question we measured online corrections in arm and leg muscles during pointing movements while standing. Nine healthy right-handed subjects reached with their dominant arm to a visual target in front of them and aligned with their midline. In some trials, the position of the target would switch from the central target to one of the other targets located 15°, 30°, or 45° to the right of the central (midline) target. For each target correction, we measured the time at which arm kinematics, ground reaction forces, and arm and leg muscle electromyogram significantly changed in response to the target displacement. Results show that postural adjustments in the left leg preceded kinematic corrections in the limb. The corrective postural muscle activity in the left leg consistently preceded the corrective reaching muscle activity in the right arm. Our results demonstrate that corrections of arm movements in response to target displacement during stance are preceded by postural adjustments in the leg contralateral to the direction of target shift. Furthermore, postural adjustments preceded both the hand trajectory correction and the arm-muscle activity responsible for it, which suggests that the central nervous system does not depend on feedback from the moving arm to modify body posture during voluntary movement. Instead, postural adjustments lead the online correction in the arm the same way they lead the initiation of voluntary arm movements. This suggests that forward models for voluntary movements executed during stance incorporate commands for posture that are produced on the basis of the required task demands.
Responses of developing pedunculopontine neurons to glutamate receptor agonists
Authors: Simon Christen , Hayar Abdallah , Garcia-Rill Edgar
Published: February 2011

The pedunculopontine nucleus (PPN) is involved in the generation and maintenance of waking and rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, forming part of the reticular activating system. The PPN receives glutamatergic afferents from other mesopontine nuclei, and glutamatergic input is believed to be involved in the generation of arousal states. We tested the hypothesis that, from postnatal days 9 to 17 in the rat, there are developmental changes in the glutamate receptor subtypes that contribute to the responses of PPN neurons. Whole cell patch-clamp recordings were conducted using brainstem slices from 9- to 17-day-old rats. All cells (types I, II, and III; randomly selected or thalamic-projecting) responded to bath application of the glutamate receptor agonists N-methyl-d-aspartic acid (NMDA) and kainic acid (KA). A developmental decrease in the contribution of the NMDA receptor and developmental increase in the contribution of the KA receptor was observed following electrical stimulation-induced glutamate input. These changes were also observed following bath application in different cell types (randomly selected vs. thalamic-projecting). KA bath application produced an increase in the paired-pulse ratio (PPR) and a decrease in the frequency of miniature excitatory postsynaptic currents (mEPSCs), suggesting that presynaptic KA autoreceptors may decrease the probability of synaptic glutamate input. In contrast, NMDA application produced no changes in the PPR or mEPSCs. Changes in glutamatergic excitability of PPN cell types could underlie the developmental decrease in REM sleep.
Effects of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor on Local Inflammation in Experimental Stroke of Rat
Authors: Jiang Yongjun , Wei Ning , Zhu Juehua , Lu Tingting , Chen Zhaoyao , Xu Gelin , Liu Xinfeng
Published: February 2011

This study was aimed to investigate whether brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) can modulate local cerebral inflammation in ischemic stroke. Rats were subjected to ischemia by occluding the right middle cerebral artery (MCAO) for 2 hours. Rats were randomized as control, BDNF, and antibody groups. The local inflammation was evaluated on cellular, cytokine, and transcription factor levels with immunofluorescence, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, real-time qPCR, and electrophoretic mobility shift assay, respectively. Exogenous BDNF significantly improved motor-sensory, sensorimotor function, and vestibulomotor function, while BDNF did not decrease the infarct volume. Exogenous BDNF increased the number of both activated and phagocytotic microglia in brain. BDNF upregulated interleukin10 and its mRNA expression, while downregulated tumor necrosis factor α and its mRNA expression. BDNF also increased DNA-binding activity of nuclear factor-kappa B. BDNF antibody, which blocked the activity of endogenous BDNF, showed the opposite effect of exogenous BDNF. Our data indicated that BDNF may modulate local inflammation in ischemic brain tissues on the cellular, cytokine, and transcription factor levels.
Effect of Oxygen and Redox Potential on Glucose Fermentation inThermotoga maritimaunder Controlled Physicochemical Conditions
Authors: Lakhal Raja , Auria Richard , Davidson Sylvain , Ollivier Bernard , Dolla Alain , Hamdi Moktar , Combet-Blanc Yannick
Published: February 2011

Batch cultures ofThermotoga maritimawere performed in a bioreactor equipped with instruments adapted for experiments performed at 80∘C to mimic the fluctuating oxidative conditions in the hot ecosystems it inhabits. When grown anaerobically on glucose,T. maritimawas shown to significantly decrease the redox potential (Eh) of the culture medium down to about −480 mV, as long as glucose was available. Addition of oxygen intoT. maritimacultures during the stationary growth phase led to a drastic reduction in glucose consumption rate. However, although oxygen was toxic, our experiment unambiguously proved thatT. maritimawas able to consume it during a 12-hour exposure period. Furthermore, a shift in glucose metabolism towards lactate production was observed under oxidative conditions.
A Method for a Solution of Equilibrium Problem and Fixed Point Problem of a Nonexpansive Semigroup in Hilbert's Spaces
Authors: Buong Nguyen , Duong NguyenDinh
Published: February 2011

We introduce a viscosity approximation method for finding a common element of the set of solutions for an equilibrium problem involving a bifunction defined on a closed, convex subset and the set of fixed points for a nonexpansive semigroup on another one in Hilbert's spaces.
Gastroprotective Effect of Rubia cordifolia Linn. on Aspirin Plus Pylorus‐Ligated Ulcer
Authors: Deoda R. S. , Kumar Dinesh , Bhujbal S. S.
Published: February 2011

The present study was designed to investigate the effect of Rubia cordifolia (Rubiaceae) against experimentally induced gastric ulcer and compare activity with its fractions by employing aspirin plus pylorus‐ligated ulcer screening model in Wistar rats. Total acidity, volume of gastric acid secretion, total acid output, and pepsin activity show significant reduction, when compared with the control group. The present study confirmed that chloroform fraction showed the significant activity at lower doses compared to parent extract. The mechanism can be attributed to decrease in gastric acid secretary activity along with strengthening of mucosal defensive mechanism by prostaglandin synthesis and antioxidant potential.
The Structure of Witnessed Community Violence amongst Urban African American Mothers: Latent Class Analysis of a Community Sample
Authors: Ronzio Cynthia R. , Mitchell Stephanie J. , Wang Jichuan
Published: February 2011

The prevalence of witnessed community violence (WCV) amongst urban populations in the USA is striking. WCV can be harmful to one′s psychological health, and for mothers, the consequences may be more far‐reaching as their mental health affects parenting and child development. This study used telephone interviews (n = 209) to explore the patterns and covariates of WCV amongst a sample of urban, African American mothers of infants. Mothers reported whether they had witnessed 11 different forms of violence in their current neighborhoods. A latent class analysis revealed two distinct groups of mothers, those with higher versus lower‐exposure to WCV. Mothers in the higher‐exposure group were more likely to be low‐income, to have a high school education or less, and to have higher anxiety scores than those in the lower‐exposure group. Depression was not associated with higher exposure to WCV. Distinguishing between higher‐ and lower‐exposure samples can inform the development of targeted prevention and intervention strategies for metropolitan areas.
Multivariate Analysis of Wound Complications after Surgery for Laryngeal and Hypopharyngeal Cancers
Authors: Sakai Akihiro , Okami Kenji , Sugimoto Ryousuke , Ebisumoto Koji , Yamamoto Hikaru , Furuya Hiroyuki , Iida Masahiro
Published: February 2011

Purpose: The aim of this study was to identify the factors leading to postoperative complications following surgical management of laryngeal and hypopharyngeal cancers. Procedures: Between 2001 and 2008, the medical records of 107 laryngeal and hypopharyngeal cancer patients requiring laryngectomy or pharyngolaryngectomy at our hospital were reviewed. The incidence of wound complications and correlation of complications with clinicopathological factors were investigated by univariate and multivariate analysis. Results: The overall incidence of wound complication was 33.6%. The complication incidence was 35.2, 21.7 and 46.2% for the primary surgery, radiation and chemoradiation groups, respectively. Diabetes mellitus and bilateral paratracheal node dissection were significantly correlated and were independent risk factors according to multivariate analysis. Bleeding from a large vessel occurred in 4 patients, and there were significant correlations with chemoradiation. Conclusion: Preoperative chemoradiation was not a significant risk factor for wound complication in this study. However, once postoperative wound complications occurred, they tended to produce lethal outcomes.
Virtual Reality Based Simulation of Hysteroscopic Interventions
Authors: Harders M. , Bachofen D. , Grassi M. , Bajka M. , Spaelter U. , Teschner M. , Heidelberger B. , Sierra R. , Steinemann D. , Tuchschmid S. , Zatonyi J. , Székely G.
Published: February 2011

Virtual reality based simulation is an appealing option to supplement traditional clinical education. However, the formal integration of training simulators into the medical curriculum is still lacking. Especially, the lack of a reasonable level of realism supposedly hinders the widespread use of this technology. Therefore, we try to tackle this situation with a reference surgical simulator of the highest possible fidelity for procedural training. This overview describes all elements that have been combined into our training system as well as first results of simulator validation. Our framework allows the rehearsal of several aspects of hysteroscopy—for instance, correct fluid management, handling of excessive bleeding, appropriate removal of intra-uterine tumors, or the use of the surgical instrument.
Modeling of Tool-Tissue Interactions for Computer-Based Surgical Simulation: A Literature Review
Authors: Misra Sarthak , Ramesh K. T. , Okamura Allison M.
Published: February 2011

Surgical simulators present a safe and potentially effective method for surgical training, and can also be used in robot-assisted surgery for pre- and intra-operative planning. Accurate modeling of the interaction between surgical instruments and organs has been recognized as a key requirement in the development of high-fidelity surgical simulators. Researchers have attempted to model tool-tissue interactions in a wide variety of ways, which can be broadly classified as (1) linear elasticity-based, (2) nonlinear (hyperelastic) elasticity-based finite element (FE) methods, and (3) other techniques not based on FE methods or continuum mechanics. Realistic modeling of organ deformation requires populating the model with real tissue data (which are difficult to acquire in vivo) and simulating organ response in real time (which is computationally expensive). Further, it is challenging to account for connective tissue supporting the organ, friction, and topological changes resulting from tool-tissue interactions during invasive surgical procedures. Overcoming such obstacles will not only help us to model tool-tissue interactions in real time, but also enable realistic force feedback to the user during surgical simulation. This review paper classifies the existing research on tool-tissue interactions for surgical simulators specifically based on the modeling techniques employed and the kind of surgical operation being simulated, in order to inform and motivate future research on improved tool-tissue interaction models.
Evaluation of Visual and Auditory Feedback in Virtual Obstacle Walking
Authors: Wellner Mathias , Schaufelberger Audrey , Zitzewitz Joachim v. , Riener Robert
Published: February 2011

This paper describes evaluation experiments for visual and auditory feedback in a virtual obstacle walking scenario. Two studies with healthy subjects were carried out using the actuated gait orthosis Lokomat. Controlled factors for the visual feedback experiment were three different perspectives and 2D/3D vision. In the auditory feedback experiment, controlled factors were rhythmic distance feedback and gradual foot clearance feedback. For the visual and auditory feedback experiments, outcome was assessed with task-specific performance parameters and questionnaires. Results for visual feedback indicate that the chosen side perspective is superior to behind and ego perspectives. It is also shown that 3D vision does not reduce the number of obstacle hits compared to 2D vision. Furthermore, it is demonstrated that adding continuous auditory feedback made subjects walk faster compared to the exclusive use of visual feedback. Subjects rated auditory distance feedback as more helpful than auditory foot clearance feedback. Therefore, we suggest using side perspective and auditory feedback on obstacle distance.
Organizational Commitment in Manufacturing Employees: Relationships With Corporate Social Performance
Authors: Stites Jenna P. , Michael Judd H.
Published: February 2011

Despite the numerous forays into understanding the concept and consequences of Corporate Social Performance (CSP), very little is known about how CSP impacts employees. In response, this study examines the relationship between employee perceptions of CSP and organizational commitment in a manufacturing industry setting. Survey data are collected from 136 production employees at three kitchen cabinet manufacturers in the United States. The results of the study show that both community-related and environmentally-related CSP are positively related to organizational commitment. These results imply that companies should communicate their CSP to all employees because it has the potential to increase their employees’ organizational commitment, which may result in positive organizational outcomes. This study contributes to extant literature by highlighting the importance of employees as a relevant stakeholder for CSP research, as well as employing comprehensive perceptual measures of both community-related and environmentally-related CSP, in a manufacturing context.
Conditions for Value Creation in the Marketplace Through the Management of CSR Issues: A Negative External Effects Framework
Authors: Daudigeos Thibault , Valiorgue Bertrand
Published: February 2011

This article contributes to research on strategic corporate social responsibility (CSR) by detailing the condition-sets governing the emergence of market-led demand for CSR. We build on external effects theory to evaluate the strategic options a company can adopt to manage its negative external effects in a way that creates social and economic value. We draw on the economic concepts of rivalry and excludability to categorize different social issues and detail the conditions needed to foster market-led transactions on negative externalities. We demonstrate how different types of negative externalities present firms with different strategic opportunities in terms of harnessing market-driven CSR demand.
Assessing Goodness of Fit in Item Response Theory With Nonparametric Models
Authors: Sueiro Manuel J. , Abad Francisco J.
Published: February 2011

The distance between nonparametric and parametric item characteristic curves has been proposed as an index of goodness of fit in item response theory in the form of a root integrated squared error index. This article proposes to use the posterior distribution of the latent trait as the nonparametric model and compares the performance of an index based on this method with another approach based on the kernel-smoothing model. Error rates and power are evaluated using the two-parameter logistic model and three types of realistic misfitted items. Results show that for fitting items, the distance between parametric and nonparametric item characteristic curves decreased as the sample size increased for both procedures. Kernel-smoothing root integrated squared error also decreased as test length increased. Bootstrap methods are used to obtain a significance test. Both procedures performed adequately in terms of Type I error rates. Regarding power, the posterior probabilities method was superior, especially in small samples, although in short tests both procedures performed in a similar way.
The Crime Drop and the Security Hypothesis
Authors: Farrell Graham , Tseloni Andromachi , Mailley Jen , Tilley Nick
Published: February 2011

Major crime drops were experienced in the United States and most other industrialized countries for a decade from the early to mid-1990s. Yet there is little agreement over explanation or lessons for policy. Here it is proposed that change in the quantity and quality of security was a key driver of the crime drop. From evidence relating to vehicle theft in two countries, it is concluded that electronic immobilizers and central locking were particularly effective. It is suggested that reduced car theft may have induced drops in other crime including violence. From this platform, a broader security hypothesis, linked to routine activity and opportunity theory, is outlined.
Is Research and Development Mispriced or Properly Risk Adjusted?
Authors: Ciftci Mustafa , Lev Baruch , Radhakrishnan Suresh
Published: February 2011

Research has established that research and development (R&D)-intensive firms are characterized by substantial future risk-adjusted stock returns. The reasons for this phenomenon and its policy implications, however, are widely debated. Some attribute the excess returns to investors' systematic undervaluation of R&D firms and argue for improved disclosure to mitigate the mispricing. whereas others claim that the excess returns are just compensating for an R&D-speciftc risk factor

We aim to provide insights into this controversy by examining R&D firms with substantial R&D outlays, that is, firms with R&D as an important ingredient in their strategy. Among such firms, we compare firms with high and low industry-adjusted R&D intensity. The high industry-adjusted R&D intensity firms are more likely to engage in basic research activities, whereas the low Indus try-adjusted R&D intensity firms are likely to mimic and extend existing technologies. As such, compared with the low industry-adjusted R&D intensity firms, the high industry-adjusted R&D intensity firms are likely to suffer from higher information asymmetry. We find that high industry-adjusted R&D intensity firms generate larger risk-adjusted returns compared with low industry-adjusted R&D intensity firms in the first five future years, after which the excess returns for the high group converge to those of the low group in the long run. This reversal in returns is consistent with undervaluation of high industry-adjusted R&D intensity firms. The long-term excess returns are positive for both the high and the low industry-adjusted R&D intensity firms, and these excess returns are partly attributable to information risk. We also show that the future excess returns of high industry-adjusted R&D intensity firms are lower for those firms who provide voluntary disclosure (earnings guidance) suggesting that the short-term undervaluation is likely due to mispricing.
Discussion of “Is Research and Development Mispriced or Properly Risk Adjusted?”
Authors: Chambers Dennis
Published: February 2011

Mustafa Ciftci, Baruch Lev, and Suresh Radhakrishnan (2011) provide an interesting and innovative look at the question of mispricing and compensation for bearing risk related to research and development (R&D) intensity. They introduce a number of significant contributions to this literature. They partition their sample based on R&D strategy, and test for both business and information risk. They find differences in the returns for bearing business and information risk across their strategy sample partitions. They also find evidence that firms following an innovative R&D strategy are underpriced by the market.
Positive outcomes following participation in a music intervention for adolescents and young adults on the autism spectrum
Authors: Hillier Ashleigh , Greher Gena , Poto Nataliya , Dougherty Margaret
Published: February 2011

Music interventions are frequently utilized with those with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and have shown a range of benefits. However, empirical evaluations are lacking and would be a timely step forward in the field. Here we report the findings of our pilot music program for adolescents and young adults with ASD. Evaluation of the program focused on self-esteem, anxiety, and attitudes toward and relationships with peers as these are pervasive challenges for those with ASD. Pre- and post-outcome measures showed a significant increase in self-esteem, reduced self-reported anxiety, and more positive attitudes toward peers. Weekly measures taken pre- and post-each session also showed a significant reduction in self-reported ratings of anxiety. These findings provide some initial empirical support for the efficacy of music participation in treating some of the core challenges seen in ASD.
Drive-Away Policing and Situational Crime Prevention in China
Authors: Xu Jianhua
Published: February 2011

Using the example of motorcycle ban policy in Guangzhou, the capital of Guangdong province, this article examines how situational crime prevention strategies are used in contemporary urban China. The article argues that although a motorcycle ban policy may reduce motorcycle snatch theft ( feiche qiangduo) in Guangzhou, it inevitably caused a problem of displacement. However, some types of displacement are desirable for local government. An argument about drive-away policing is proposed in this article to understand policing styles in contemporary China. In addition, the article argues that motorcycle ban, as a strategy to prevent snatch theft and robbery, is also a strategy to deal with the crisis in police legitimacy. Therefore, crime prevention in China has more social and political significance than just reducing crime.
Effect of Electron Beam Irradiation on the Mechanical, Thermal, and Dynamic Mechanical Behavior of Waste Polyethylene - Short Glass Fiber Composites
Authors: Satapathy S. , Nando G.B. , Nag A.
Published: February 2011

In this study, the effect of electron beam irradiation on the physico-mechanical, thermal, and dynamic properties of short glass fiber (GF)-reinforced waste polyethylene (WPE), virgin high density polyethylene (HDPE), and blends of WPE/HDPE in the ratio 50 : 50 was studied. For comparison, short GFs were irradiated with electron beam separately and the composites were prepared with WPE, HDPE, and blends of WPE with HDPE. Only a single proportion of the GF was used, that is, 50 wt% and dosage of the electron beam was 250 kGy. The results given in this article show that the tensile strength, flexural strength, flexural modulus, and hardness increased when the composites were subjected to electron beam irradiation. The elongation at break does not undergo any change. The results obtained are also confirmed by scanning electron microscopy and thermogravimetric analysis. Dynamic mechanical properties are also measured for suggesting utilization of these composites for commercial applications.
Age and Trust in the Internet: The Centrality of Experience and Attitudes Toward Technology in Britain
Authors: Blank Grant , Dutton William H.
Published: February 2011

The authors describe changes in user’s trust on the Internet in Britain between 2003 and 2009, and show how the relationship between age and trust can be explained by a combination of experience with the Internet and general attitudes toward technology. The comparison uses 2003 results reported by Dutton and Shepherd (2006) versus similarly sampled 2009 data. The authors examine two sets of dependent variables—perceptions of trust and risk on the Internet and use of the Internet for e-commerce, an anticipated impact of trust. The authors find that indicators of trust are related to experience with the technology, although this relationship is less important in 2009 than it was in 2003. The authors also find that trust is influenced by general attitudes toward technology. When both experience on the Internet and technology attitudes are controlled, the relation between indicators of trust and age disappears. This finding is particularly interesting since age is usually an important predictor of many aspects of the Internet; it suggests that the role of age can be mitigated by addressing the degree to which older individuals tend to have less experience with the Internet and more scepticism about the role of technology in society. Interventions could address both of these determinants of distrust.
Work Socialization and Adolescents' Work-Related Values in Single-Mother African American Families
Authors: Toyokawa Teru , McLoyd Vonnie C.
Published: February 2011

This study examined African American mothers' work socialization messages in relation to adolescents' work-related values. Moderation effects of mother–adolescent relation quality on the linkage between maternal socialization messages and adolescents' outcomes were also examined. Participants were 245 single African American mothers and their seventh- and eighth-grade children. Results showed that for boys, greater frequency of conventional messages (e.g., importance of discipline, hard work, and skills for job success) was associated with stronger endorsement of hard work for success, whereas for girls, this association was found only for those who perceived positive relations with their mothers. Race-related messages (e.g., the notion that African Americans have to work harder than Anglo Americans to get ahead) predicted girls' effort in schoolwork, but only among those who had less positive relations with their mothers. The importance of mother–child relations in the transmission of mothers' socialization messages to children is discussed.
Comparing the Validity of the RM2000 Scales and OGRS3 for Predicting Recidivism by Internet Sexual Offenders
Authors: Wakeling Helen Catherine , Howard Philip , Barnett Georgia
Published: February 2011

This study examined the predictive validity of four actuarial risk assessment tools with sexual offenders convicted of Internet offenses in England and Wales. Risk Matrix 2000 scales (RM2000/s, RM2000/v, and RM2000/c) and Offender Group Reconviction Scale 3 were examined to establish their accuracy in predicting sexual, violent, sexual and violent, and general reoffending in a sample of 1,344 Internet offenders who had either started a community sentence or been released from prison into the community by March 2007. A modified version of RM2000/s was used. Rates of proven reoffending were examined at 1 year for the majority of the sample ( n = 1,326), and 2 years ( n = 994) for those for whom these data were available. Proven reoffending was defined as any caution or conviction for a new offense. Reoffending rates were very low among this sample, and three quarters of the sexual reoffending was Internet related. The results indicate that all four tools had moderate to very good predictive accuracy as measured using receiver operating characteristics statistics when used to predict the outcome they were designed to (areas under the curve between .67 and .87). The results were also examined for generalist sexual offenders (those who had both Internet-related and other sexual offenses in their offense history) and Internet specialists (those whose sexual offenses were only Internet related) separately. The very low reoffending rate of the Internet specialists made these comparisons difficult. Further research is required with larger sample sizes and longer follow-up periods before firm conclusions can be made regarding the accuracy of these tools with Internet offenders.
The Relationship Between Principal Leadership Skills and School-Wide Positive Behavior Support
Authors: Richter Mary Miller , Lewis Timothy J. , Hagar John
Published: February 2011

This study investigated key principal leadership skills associated with socially proactive school environments and examined the relationship between School-Wide Positive Behavior Support (SWPBS) implementation and increased evidence of those skills. Findings indicated the following: (a) certified staff members and principals from all schools rated the importance of each of the 31 skills as high; (b) principals in SWPBS schools received significantly higher ratings associated with behavior management effectiveness; and (c) principals from SWPBS and non-PBS schools received relatively equivalent ratings in regard to transformational and managerial skills. SWPBS-certified staff respondents indicated statistically significantly greater rates of job satisfaction than did those in non-PBS schools. Implications for future research are discussed.
Varying the cause of a challenge to exercise identity behaviour: Reactions of individuals of differing identity strength
Authors: Strachan Shaelyn M. , Flora Parminder K. , Brawley Lawrence R. , Spink Kevin S.
Published: February 2011

Research shows that people with stronger exercise identity (EXID) exhibit greater negative affect and self-regulatory efficacy (SRE) when behaviour is inconsistent with identity. However, related attributions have not been examined. Using social cognitive and identity theories, we examined causes of failing to exercise. In a two (EXID: stronger, weaker) by two (Cause: personally-controllable, situational) design, participants ( N = 224) were randomized to Cause and read a condition-relevant no-exercise vignette. MANOVA revealed main effects for Cause and EXID, p’s < .001. Participants explaining their Cause differed on attributional dimensions, and stronger EXID participants reported greater negative affect and higher SRE, p’s < .001.
A qualitative study of the experiences of people who identify themselves as having adjusted positively to a visible difference
Authors: Egan Katie , Harcourt Diana , Rumsey Nichola ,   Appearance Research Collaboration
Published: February 2011

Individual and group interviews explored experiences of positive adjustment among 12 people with a range of visible differences. Thematic analysis identified four main themes: importance of appearance; personal growth; relationships with others; and coping (factors in the coping theme considered to be paramount to positive adjustment were inner strength and positivity, active coping techniques, downward social comparisons, taking things day-by-day, spirituality and humour). The findings provide insight into behaviours and personal outlooks that may contribute to adaptive coping and have implications for future research and interventions aimed at those who exhibit poor adjustment to visible difference. The article reflects on the use of both individual and group interviews for research in this field.
Mechanisms underlying comprehension of health information in adulthood: The roles of prior knowledge and working memory capacity
Authors: Soederberg Miller Lisa M. , Gibson Tanja N. , Applegate Elizabeth A. , de Dios Jeannette
Published: February 2011

Prior knowledge, working memory capacity (WMC), and conceptual integration (attention allocated to integrating concepts in text) are critical within many contexts; however, their impact on the acquisition of health information (i.e. learning) is relatively unexplored.We examined how these factors impact learning about nutrition within a cross-sectional study of adults ages 18 to 81. Results showed that conceptual integration mediated the effects of knowledge and WMC on learning, confirming that attention to concepts while reading is important for learning about health. We also found that when knowledge was controlled, age declines in learning increased, suggesting that knowledge mitigates the effects of age on learning about nutrition.
Application of Habit Reversal Training for the Treatment of Tics in Early Childhood
Authors: Feldman Marissa A. , Storch Eric A. , Murphy Tanya K.
Published: February 2011

Habit-reversal training (HRT) has demonstrated efficacy in adults and in children above 9 years of age with tic disorders. However, less is known about the utility of this treatment with children younger than 9 years of age.This is alarming given that most children with tic disorders experience symptom onset before 9 years and that existing pharmacological treatments show modest efficacy, may have side effects, and may not be an acceptable intervention to parents. With this in mind, this case report documents the use of HRT with a 6-year-old female with pronounced and impairing motor tics. Throughout the course of the treatment (eight sessions) “Megan” showed improvement in her ability to control her symptoms. Furthermore, treatment gains and improved quality of life were maintained at follow-up. This case report suggests the utility of HRT for the treatment of tics in early childhood, with developmental considerations and the integration of family-based skills training.
An innovative hybrid natural–artificial sports pitch construction system
Authors: Lulli F , Volterrani M , Magni S , Armeni R
Published: February 2011

Third-generation artificial-turf pitches are often criticized because of their high abrasiveness when athletes fall on the surface, the high temperatures recorded in summer periods, and their unpleasant rubber odour. On the other hand, natural-turf pitches are not able to withstand the high play volumes currently associated with modern high-profile and community sports pitches. Hybrid systems with a varying presence of artificial fibres and reinforcements have long been tested and installed, without providing a definitive answer to the above-mentioned problems of natural turf.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the playing characteristics and the wear resistance of a newly patented hybrid natural-artificial sports pitch construction system after rugby and football play for 2 months and 5 months. This hybrid system consists of a modified third-generation artificial grass with organic infill, on which natural grass was allowed to grow.

A 11300 m2 experimental pitch was constructed in Pisa (Italy) in the summer of 2007 and tested during 2007–2008 following football and rugby union play for an average of 8–9 h/week. The hybrid pitch showed a total absence of rubber odour, summer temperatures similar to those of natural-turf pitches, wear resistance superior to that of natural-turf pitches, abrasiveness similar to that of natural-turf pitches, and good infill particle size stability. Most playing-quality parameters fell within both the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) Recommended 2-Star Standard requirements for artificial turf and generally accepted playing-quality parameters for natural turf. Since then more pitches as described herein have been constructed and witnessed international match play, while FIFA has classified the system as a reinforced natural-grass pitch.
‘‘New Media’’ Skills Competency Expected of TV Reporters and Producers: A Survey
Authors: Cremedas Michael , Lysak Suzanne
Published: February 2011

The authors conducted a nationwide Web-based survey of network affiliate television stations (ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox) that present local news. This was an exploratory study to examine the current state of online news production at local television stations— what is being produced and who is producing it—and what emphasis news directors place on ‘‘new media’’ skills when making hiring decisions. The results indicate that virtually everyone in the newsroom is expected to generate web product, with reporters and newscast producers bearing the heaviest burden. The study also shows that news directors overwhelmingly prefer to hire people with existing web skills. Furthermore, this research makes it clear that the web has found its place as a primary news presentation tool in local television newsrooms. In some cases, maintaining the station’s website is a priority and staff resources are dedicated to that purpose. But many other local newsrooms find they must perform a balancing act. They have to constantly feed the never-ending web news cycle, and yet continue to produce newscasts in a highly charged and competitive atmosphere. These newsrooms find that while they would like to expand and improve their web news product, sometimes a minimum presence will have to suffice. Armed with a picture of how today’s TV newsrooms are attempting to meet the demand for Web content, broadcast journalism educators can more efficiently establish a proper balance between traditional classroom instruction and training in ‘‘new media.’’
Parameter measurement for heavy-vehicle fuel consumption modelling
Authors: Hunt S W , Odhams A M C , Roebuck R L , Cebon D
Published: February 2011

A mathematical model is developed to predict the energy consumption of a heavy vehicle. It includes the important factors of heavy-vehicle energy consumption, namely engine and drivetrain performances, losses due to accessories, aerodynamic drag, rolling resistance, road gradients, and driver behaviour. Novel low-cost testing methods were developed to determine engine and drivetrain characteristics. A simple drive cycle was used to validate the model. The model is able to predict the fuel use for a 37 t tractor–semitrailer vehicle over a 4 km drive cycle within 1 per cent. This paper demonstrates that accurate and reliable vehicle benchmarking and model parameter measurement can be achieved without expensive equipment overheads, e.g. engine and chassis dynamometers.
C/EBPα and C/EBPα oncoproteins regulate nfkb1 and displace histone deacetylases from NF-κB p50 homodimers to induce NF-κB target genes
Authors: Paz-Priel Ido , Houng Simone , Dooher Julia , Friedman Alan D.
Published: February 2011

Mutated CEBPA defines a subgroup of acute myeloid leukemia (AML). We have previously shown that C/EBPα or its AML mutants synergize with NF-κB p50 to activate antiapoptotic genes, including BCL2 and FLIP. Furthermore, p50 binds and activates the CEBPA gene in myeloid cells. We now report that C/EBPα or C/EBPα leucine zipper AML mutants bind in vivo to the nfkb1 (p50) promoter and induce its expression even in the presence of cycloheximide. Induction of p50 by C/EBPα depends on 2 conserved κB sites in the nfkb1 promoter. C/EBPα did not induce p65 expression. Thus, C/EBPα and p50 reciprocally regulate each other's expression, establishing a positive feedback relationship. Although p50 homodimers inhibit transcription, C/EBPα and p50 synergistically activate antiapoptotic genes. ChIP analysis showed that C/EBPα diminishes the occupation of histone deacetylase 1 (HDAC1) or HDAC3 on the endogenous FLIP promoter but not in mice lacking p50. Coimmunoprecipitation confirmed that C/EBPα, its AML variants, or C/EBPβ disrupt interaction between p50 and HDACs dependent on the C/EBP basic region. These findings suggest that C/EBPs displace HDACs from p50 homodimers bound to antiapoptotic genes, contributing to NF-κB dysregulation in leukemia, and that the C/EBPα:p50 complex is a potential therapeutic target.
Hepcidin and iron regulation, 10 years later
Authors: Ganz Tomas
Published: February 2011

Under evolutionary pressure to counter the toxicity of iron and to maintain adequate iron supply for hemoglobin synthesis and essential metabolic functions, humans and other vertebrates have effective mechanisms to conserve iron and to regulate its concentration, storage, and distribution in tissues. The iron-regulatory hormone hepcidin, first described 10 years ago, and its receptor and iron channel ferroportin control the dietary absorption, storage, and tissue distribution of iron. Hepcidin causes ferroportin internalization and degradation, thereby decreasing iron transfer into blood plasma from the duodenum, from macrophages involved in recycling senescent erythrocytes, and from iron-storing hepatocytes. Hepcidin is feedback regulated by iron concentrations in plasma and the liver and by erythropoietic demand for iron. Genetic malfunctions affecting the hepcidin-ferroportin axis are a main cause of iron overload disorders but can also cause iron-restricted anemias. Modulation of hepcidin and ferroportin expression during infection and inflammation couples iron metabolism to host defense and decreases iron availability to invading pathogens. This response also restricts the iron supply to erythropoietic precursors and may cause or contribute to the anemia associated with infections and inflammatory disorders.
Alfred Fleisch (1892–1973): Professor of Physiology at the University of Tartu, Estonia
Authors: Kingisepp Peet-Henn
Published: February 2011

Alfred Fleisch was a Swiss physiologist who invented several medical devices, among them a device for measuring airflow known as Fleischs's pneumotachometre. The airflow measurers – transducers – are still well known and are used all over the world in different varieties of spirograph.
Knowledge Collaboration in Online Communities
Authors: Faraj Samer , Jarvenpaa Sirkka L. , Majchrzak Ann
Published: February 2011

Online communities (OCs) are a virtual organizational form in which knowledge collaboration can occur in unparalleled scale and scope, in ways not heretofore theorized. For example, collaboration can occur among people not known to each other, who share different interests and without dialogue. An exploration of this organizational form can fundamentally change how we theorize about knowledge collaboration among members of organizations. We argue that a fundamental characteristic of OCs that affords collaboration is their fluidity. This fluidity engenders a dynamic flow of resources in and out of the community—resources such as passion, time, identity, social disembodiment of ideas, socially ambiguous identities, and temporary convergence. With each resource comes both a negative and positive consequence, creating a tension that fluctuates with changes in the resource. We argue that the fluctuations in tensions can provide an opportunity for knowledge collaboration when the community responds to these tensions in ways that encourage interactions to be generative rather than constrained. After offering numerous examples of such generative responses, we suggest that this form of theorizing—induced by online communities—has implications for theorizing about the more general case of knowledge collaboration in organizations.
Thrombotic Microangiopathic Hemolytic Anemia With Reduction of ADAMTS13 Activity
Authors: Muscal Eyal , Edwards Rachel M. , Kearney Debra L. , Hicks John M. , Myones Barry L. , Teruya Jun
Published: February 2011

Severe manifestations of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), and thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) are characterized by multiorgan thrombotic microangiopathy. We describe reduction of ADAMTS13 activity and the development of systemic autoimmunity in all 8 children initially diagnosed with acquired noncongenital TTP during an 8.5-year period. Median age at diagnosis was 12.0 years (range, 2.6–17.3 years). ADAMTS13 activity was absent (<5%) in 6 patients; 3 patients had a detected inhibitor. SLE was diagnosed concurrently in 3 patients, and 4 patients were diagnosed within 5 years. Six of the children diagnosed with SLE had absent ADAMTS13 activity at diagnosis. In 6 patients with SLE, immune-mediated nephritis developed by 46 months. All surviving patients with SLE developed antiphospholipid antibodies, including some with a lupus anticoagulant. Patients with SLE did not have TTP recurrences once daily immunosuppressive regimens were started. An evaluation for SLE/APS is warranted in children and adolescents with reduced ADAMTS13 activity and thrombotic microangiopathy.
Chromosome 20q Deletion
Authors: Sun Jianlan , Yin C. Cameron , Cui Wei , Chen Su S. , Medeiros L. Jeffrey , Lu Gary
Published: February 2011

del(20q) can be observed in hematologic neoplasms, including chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML), and has been reported in patients undergoing blast transformation. We describe 10 patients with CML in hematologic and cytogenetic remission with del(20q) detected by conventional cytogenetics. There were 6 men and 4 women with a median age of 56 years. All patients initially had BCR-ABL1 and t(9;22) (q34;q11.2) and achieved morphologic and cytogenetic remission after therapy. del(20q) was identified before (2/10 [20%]), at the time of (3/10 [30%]), or after (5/10 [50%]) cytogenetic remission and was not associated with morphologic evidence of dysplasia. At last follow-up, no patients had a myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). Leukocyte and platelet counts were normal; 4 of 10 patients had mild anemia. Nine patients have remained in morphologic and cytogenetic remission with stable del(20q). BCR-ABL1 fusion transcript levels were absent or low (median, 0.01%). Recently, in 1 patient, recurrent CML developed and del(20q) was lost. We conclude that del(20q) in the setting of CML in remission is not predictive of MDS or blast transformation.