bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mary has more: Sex differences, autism, coherence, and theory of mind
Authors: Frith Uta , Happé Francesca
Published: February 2010

We challenge the notion that differences in spatial ability are the best or only explanation for observed sex differences in mathematical word problems. We suggest two ideas from the study of autism: sex differences in theory of mind and in central coherence.
Sexual-selection accounts of human characteristics: Just So Stories or scientific hypotheses?
Authors: Newcombe Nora , Baenninger Mary Ann
Published: February 2010

We evaluate three of Geary's claims, finding that (1) there is little evidence for sex differences in object- vs. person-orientation; (2) sex differences in competition, even if biologically caused, lead to sex differences in mathematics only given a certain style of teaching; and (3) sex differences in mental rotation, though real, are not well explained in a sociobiological framework or by the proximate biological variables assumed by Geary.
The twain shall meet: Uniting the analysis of sex differences and within-sex variation
Authors: Rowe David C.
Published: February 2010

Spatial and mathematical abilities may be “sex-limited” traits. A sex-limited trait has the same determinants of variation within the sexes, but the genetic or environmental effects would be differentially expressed in males and females. New advances in structural equation modeling allow means and variation to be estimated simultaneously. When these statistical methods are combined with a genetically informative research design, it should be possible to demonstrate that the genes influencing spatial and mathematical abilities are sex-limited in their expression. This approach would give an empirical confirmation of Geary's evolutionary speculations.
Spatial visualization and sex-related differences in mathematical problem solving
Authors: Sherman Julia A.
Published: February 2010

Spatial visualization as a key variable in sex-related differences in mathematical problem solving and spatial aspects of geometry is traced to the 1960s. More recent relevant data are presented. The variability debate is traced to the latter part of the nineteenth century and an explanation for it is suggested. An idea is presented for further research to clarify sex-related brain laterality differences in solving spatial problems.
We are far from understanding sex-related differences in spatial-mathematical abilities despite the theory of sexual selection
Authors: Tan Üner
Published: February 2010

I have provided evidence that Geary's model does not explain male dominance in spatial abilities by sexual selection. The current literature concerning the relations of nonverbal IQ to testosterone, hand preference, and right- and left-hand skill, as well as the organizing effects of testosterone on cerebral lateralization during the perinatal period, does not support Geary's arguments.
Nonlinear nonequilibrium nonquantum nonchaotic statistical mechanics of neocortical interactions
Authors: Ingber Lester
Published: February 2010

The work in progress reported by Wright & Liley shows great promise, primarily because of their experimental and simulation paradigms. However, their tentative conclusion that macroscopic neocortex may be considered (approximately) a linear near-equilibrium system is premature and does not correspond to tentative conclusions drawn from other studies of neocortex.
Why does the human brain need to be a nonlinear system?
Authors: Kowalik Zbigniew J. , Wrobel Andrzej , Rydz Andrzej
Published: February 2010

We focus on one aspect of Wright & Liley's target article: the linearity of the EEG. According to the authors, some nonlinear models of the cortex can be reduced (approximated) to the linear case at the millimetric scale. We argue here that the statement about the linear character of EEG is too strong and that EEG exhibits nonlinear features which cannot be ignored.
Multiscale neocortical dynamics, experimental EEG measures, and global facilitation of local cell assemblies
Authors: Nunez Paul L.
Published: February 2010

Multiscale dynamics, linear approximations, global boundary conditions, experimental verification, and global influences on local cell assemblies are considered in the context of Wright & Liley's work. W&L provide a nice introduction to these issues and a reasonable simulation of intermediate scale dynamics, but the model does not adequately simulate combined local and global processes.
Is there chaos in the brain?
Authors: Preissl Hubert , Lutzenberger Werner , Pulvermüller Friedemann
Published: February 2010

For some years there has been a controversy about whether brain state variables such as EEG or neuronal spike trains exhibit chaotic behaviour. Wright & Liley claim that the local dynamics measured by spike trains or local field potentials exhibit chaotic behaviour, but global measures like EEG should be governed by linear dynamics. We propose a different scheme. Based on simulation studies and various experiments, we suggest that the pointwise dimension of EEG time series may provide some valuable information about underlying neuronal generators.
The EEGdataindicate stochastic nonlinearity
Authors: Pritchard Walter S.
Published: February 2010

Wright & Liley contrast their theory that the global dynamics of the EEG are linear with that of Freeman, who hypothesizes an EEG governed by (nonlinear) deterministic-chaotic dynamics. A “call for further discussion” on the part of the authors is made as to how either theory fits with experimental findings indicating that EEG dynamics are non-linear but stochastic.
The form of chaos in the noisy brain can manifest function
Authors: Tsuda Ichiro
Published: February 2010

I would like to emphasize the significance of chaotic dynamics at both local and macroscopic levels in the cortex. The basic notions dealt with in this commentary will be noise-induced order, chaotic “itinerancy” and dissipative structure. Wright & Laley's theory would be partially misleading, since emergent nonlinearity rather than the linearity at even a macroscopic level can actually subserve cortical functions.
Multiscale modeling of brain dynamics depends upon approximations at each scale
Authors: Wright J. J. , Liley D. T. J.
Published: February 2010

We outline fresh findings that show that our macroscopic electrocorticographic (ECoG) simulations can account for synchronous multiunit pulse oscillations at separate, simultaneously activated cortical sites and the associated gamma-band ECoG activity. We clarify our views on the approximations of dynamic class applicable to neural events at macroscopic and microscopic scales, and the analogies drawn to classes of ANN behaviour. We accept the need to introduce memory processes and detailed anatomical and physiological information into any future developments of our simulations. On the issue of intrinsic cortical stability and the role of extrinsic fibre systems in maintaining stability, we argue that this position is not in extreme contradiction to those of our commentators, and that the mechanisms implicit in our simulations' properties imply rich computational possibilities. We discuss some of the reasons for and against the existence of significant global resonances in the brain and explain why such behaviour appears absent in our simulations. Last, we discuss other phenomena, such as rhythmic driving of the cortex, which have not yet been introduced into our models, and indicate lines for future development of the simulations.
Who determines the value of drug-taking behavior? Cultural considerations for a theory of behavioral choice
Authors: Hinson Riley E.
Published: February 2010

Heyman's analysis of addiction suggests that drug taking is irrational. The irrationality of drug taking, however, may depend on the acceptance of mainstream society's view of what is valuable. Consideration of the addict's viewpoint and cultural aspects of drug taking may be useful in trying to fathom the “rationality” of drug taking.
Melioration and addiction
Authors: Houston Alasdair I.
Published: February 2010

I discuss various theoretical issues concerning maximizing, matching, and melioration. The model of addiction based on melioration has the key feature that a reduction in drag use increases both the value of drag-taking and the value of conventional activities. I found Heyman's target article stimulating. I don't feel competent to comment on drags but I do have some thoughts, both general and specific, on the theoretical issues.
Addiction: Taking the brain seriously
Authors: Hyman Steven E.
Published: February 2010

Heyman's target article is an analytical tour de force, but it makes too hard a distinction between voluntary and driven behavior. It is more fruitful to think about brain and behavior as shifting, interacting “agents,” represented by multiple neural circuits. This has the virtue of better connecting behavioral analysis with wet neuroscience.
Self-control and impulsiveness: Resolution of apparent contradictions in choice behavior
Authors: Logue A. W.
Published: February 2010

Choosing the smaller, less delayed reinforcers of drug abuse (including cessation of withdrawal) over the larger, more delayed reinforcers of a healthy life can be described as impulsiveness (the opposite of self-control). Examination of drug abuse using a self-control/impulsiveness framework can help explain many of the puzzles about this behavior, while tying drug abuse into a large research database.
Stimulus factors in addiction
Authors: Nevin John A.
Published: February 2010

Heyman's analysis of addiction in terms of matching to local relative value can be supplemented by stimulus-control processes. Stimulus equivalence can broaden the set of situations that occasion addictive behavior, and the situation-reinforcer correlation can enhance its persistence. The joint effects of stimulus-control and reinforcement processes may complicate treatment.
In search of the relevant behavioral variables
Authors: Plaud Joseph J.
Published: February 2010

Heyman s analysis of the relevant complex behavioral variables associated with addiction is evaluated in relation to identifying the appropriate variables in behavior analysis. The model of behavioral allocation and choice known as melioration, discussed by Heyman as a way to understand the complexities of addiction, is examined and contrasted with another model of matching called ratio invariance, which is offered in this commentary as another behavioral account with a significant potential for resolving the contradictions of addiction.
The contradiction unresolved
Authors: Schelling Thomas C.
Published: February 2010

Extreme sensations – thirst, pain – can focus attention on local consequences at the expense of the overall, perhaps for good evolutionary reasons. Maybe the same phenomenon evolves from prolonged use of addictive substances. The matching law explains mistaken choice, not how a person who has confronted personal catastrophe manages to ignore it in making a locally induced choice.
How to grow a human
Authors: Corballis Michael C.
Published: February 2010

I enlarge on the theme that the brain mechanisms required for languageand other aspects of the human mind evolved through selective changes in the regulatory genes governing growth. Extension of the period of postnatal growth increases the role of the environment in structuring the brain, and spatiotemporal programming (heterochrony) ofgrowth might explain hierarchical representation, hemispheric specialization, and perhaps sex differences.
Sign language and the brain: Apes, apraxia, and aphasia
Authors: Corina David
Published: February 2010

The study of signed languages has inspired scientific' speculation regarding foundations of human language. Relationships between the acquisition of sign language in apes and man are discounted on logical grounds. Evidence from the differential hreakdown of sign language and manual pantomime places limits on the degree of overlap between language and nonlanguage motor systems. Evidence from functional magnetic resonance imaging reveals neural areas of convergence and divergence underlying signed and spoken languages.
Neurobiological approaches to language: Falsehoods and fallacies
Authors: Grodzinsky Yosef
Published: February 2010

The conclusion that language is not really innate or modular is based on several fallacies. I show that the target article confuses communicative skills with linguistic abilities, and that its discussion of brain/language relations is replete with factual errors. I also criticize its attempt to contrast biological and linguistic principles. Finally, I argue that no case is made for the “alternative” approach proposed here.
Evolutionary principles and the emergence of syntax
Authors: Schoenemann P. Thomas , Wang William S.-Y.
Published: February 2010

The belief that syntax is an innate, autonomous, species-specific module is highly questionable. Syntax demonstrates the mosaic nature of evolutionary change, in that it made use of (and led to the enhancement of) numerous preexisting neurocognitive features. It is best understood as an emergent characteristic of the explosion of semantic complexity that occurred during hominid evolution.
Autonomy and its discontents
Authors: Sinha Chris
Published: February 2010

Müller's review of the neuroscientific evidence undermines nativist claims for autonomous syntax and the argument from the poverty of the stimulus. Generativists will appeal to data from language acquisition, but here too there is growing evidence against the nativist position. Epigenetic naturalism, the developmental alternative to nativism, can be extended to epigenetic socionaturalism, acknowledging the importance of sociocultural processes in language and cognitive development.
A polyglot perspective on dissociation
Authors: Smith Neil
Published: February 2010

Evidence is presented from a polyglot savant to suggest that double dissociations between linguistic and nonverbal abilities are more important than Müller's target article implies. It is also argued that the special nature of syntax makes its assimilation to other aspects of language or to nonhuman communication systems radically implausible.
Is human language just another neurobiological specialization?
Authors: Walker Stephen F.
Published: February 2010

One can disagree with Müller that it is neurobiologically questionable to suppose that human language is innate, specialized, and species-specific, yet agree that the precise brain mechanisms controlling language in any individual will be influenced by epigenesis and genetic variability, and that the interplay between inherited and acquired aspects of linguistic capacity deserves to be investigated.
Full access to the evidence for falsification
Authors: Birdsong David
Published: February 2010

The Epstein, Flynn, and Martohardjorno full access hypothesis could be enhanced by inclusion of criteria for falsification.
What we have to explain in foreign language learning
Authors: Bley-Vroman Robert
Published: February 2010

While child language development theory must explain invariant “success,” foreign language learning theory must explain variation and lack of success. The fundamental difference hypothesis (FDH) outlines such a theory. Epstein et al. ignore the explanatory burden, mischaracterize the FDH, and underestimate the resources of human cognition. The field of second language acquisition is not divided into camps by views on “access” to UG.
How adult second language learning differs from child first language development
Authors: Clahsen Harald , Muysken Pieter
Published: February 2010

We argue that the model developed in Epstein et al.'s target article does not explain differences between child first language (LI) acquisition and adult second language (L2) acquisition. We therefore sketch an alternative view, originally developed in Clahsen and Muysken (1989), in the light of new empirical findings and theoretical developments.
UG and SLA: The access question, and how to beg it
Authors: Gregg Kevin R.
Published: February 2010

Epstein, Flynn, and Martohardjono trivialize the question of access to universal grammar in second language acquisition by arguing against a straw-man version of the no-access position and by begging the question of how second language (L2) knowledge is represented in the mind/brain of an adult L2 learner. They compound their errors by employing a research methodology that fails to provide any relevant evidence.
In support of the early presence of functional categories in second language acquisition
Authors: Kanno Kazue
Published: February 2010

This commentary focuses on whether the full set of categories is available to beginning L2 learners. After critiquing Epstein et al.'s experimental evidence for the presence of functional categories, I outline the results of an experiment involving English speakers learning Japanese as a second language that does indeed point toward the early presence of fuuctional categories.
To “grow” and what “to grow,” that is one question
Authors: Liceras Juana M.
Published: February 2010

L2 learners may access UG principles because these are realized in all natural languages. Since this is not the case for the parametrized aspects of language, parameter setting may be progressively replaced by restructuring mechanisms which are specifically related to the process of representational redescription because L2 learners are not sensitive to the [±] features which define parameters.
Language is learned
Authors: MacWhinney Brian
Published: February 2010

Epstein et al. attribute second language learning to the forces of transfer and language universals. They show that transfer is minimally involved in certain types of learning and therefore conclude that universals are involved. However, they forget to consider the important role of learning in second language acquisition.
Syntactic representations and the L2 acquisition device
Authors: O'Grady William
Published: February 2010

Epstein et al.'s theory of SLA is heavily dependent on assumptions about both the nature of the acquisition device and the grammar that it produces. This commentary briefly explores the consequences of an alternative set of assumptions, focusing on the possibility that the acquisition device does not include UG and that syntactic representations do not contain functional projections.
Language growth after puberty?
Authors: Otero Carlos P.
Published: February 2010

The range of hypotheses considered is surprising in that the most arguably plausible one is not included: the invariant principles of language are available for life, while the parameters of variation cannot be set after puberty. This hypothesis provides a better explanation than the author's for both the deep similarities and the vast differences between child “language growth” and adult language acquisition.
Alternative origins of motor images
Authors: Grant Stuart C. , Schmuckler Mark A.
Published: February 2010

Jeannerod (1994) advocates studying motor images to understand the representation of action. We identify an unsettled issue that complicates the use of motor images to study the representation of action and present some evidence for a clear absence of equivalence between motor imagery and movement preparation. We then elaborate and emphasize the relevance of the mental practice literature, which was introduced in the first round of commentary. Finally, we suggest two methods that will allow motor imagery theorists to address these points.
The language bioprogram hypothesis
Authors: Bickerton Derek
Published: February 2010

It is hypothesized that creole languages are largely invented by children and show fundamental similarities, which derive from a biological program for language. The structures of Hawaiian Pidgin and Hawaiian Creole are contrasted, and evidence is provided to show that the latter derived from the former in a single generation. A realistic model of the processes of Creole formation shows how several specific historical and demographic factors interacted to restrict, in varying degrees, the access of pidgin speakers to the dominant language, and hence the nature of input to the children of those speakers. It is shown that the resulting similarities of Creole languages derive from a single grammar with a restricted list of categories and operations. However, grammars of individual Creoles will differ from this grammar to a varying extent: The degree of difference will correlate very closely with the quantity of dominant-language input, which in turn is controlled by extralinguistic factors. Alternative explanations of the above phenomena are surveyed, in particular, substratum theory and monogenesis: Both are found inadequate to account for the facts. Primary acquisition is examined in light of the general hypothesis, and it is suggested that the bioprogram provides a skeletal model of language which the child can then readily convert into the target language. Cases of systematic error and precocious learning provide indirect support for the hypothesis. Some conjectures are made concerning the evolutionary origins of the bioprogram and what study of Creoles and related topics might reveal about language origins.
Unconscious cerebral initiative and the role of conscious will in voluntary action
Authors: Libet Benjamin
Published: February 2010

Voluntary acts are preceded by electrophysiological “readiness potentials” (RPs). With spontaneous acts involving no preplanning, the main negative RP shift begins at about—550 ms. Such RPs were used to indicate the minimum onset times for the cerebral activity that precedes a fully endogenous voluntary act. The time of conscious intention to act was obtained from the subject's recall of the spatial clock position of a revolving spot at the time of his initial awareness of intending or wanting to move (W). W occurred at about—200 ms. Control experiments, in which a skin stimulus was timed (S), helped evaluate each subject's error in reporting the clock times for awareness of any perceived event.

For spontaneous voluntary acts, RP onset preceded the uncorrected Ws by about 350 ms and the Ws corrected for S by about 400 ms. The direction of this difference was consistent and significant throughout, regardless of which of several measures of RP onset or W were used. It was concluded that cerebral initiation of a spontaneous voluntary act begins unconsciously. However, it was found that the final decision to act could still be consciously controlled during the 150 ms or so remaining after the specific conscious intention appears. Subjects can in fact “veto” motor performance during a 100–200-ms period before a prearranged time to act.

The role of conscious will would be not to initiate a specific voluntary act but rather to select and control volitional outcome. It is proposed that conscious will can function in a permissive fashion, either to permit or to prevent the motor implementation of the intention to act that arises unconsciously. Alternatively, there may be the need for a conscious activation or triggering, without which the final motor output would not follow the unconscious cerebral initiating and preparatory processes.
Adaptability of innate motor patterns and motor control mechanisms
Authors: Berkinblit M. B. , Feldman A. G. , Fukson O. I.
Published: February 2010

The following factors underlying behavioral plasticity are discussed: (1) reflex adaptability and its role in the voluntary control of movement, (2) degrees of freedom and motor equivalence, and (3) the problem of the discrete organization of motor behavior. Our discussion concerns a variety of innate motor patterns, with emphasis on the wiping reflex in the frog.

It is proposed that central regulation of stretch reflex thresholds governs voluntary control over muscle force and length. This suggestion is an integral part of the equilibrium-point hypothesis, two versions of which are compared.

Kinematic analysis of the wiping reflex in the spinal frog has shown that each stimulated skin site is associated with a group of different but equally effective trajectories directed to the target site. Such phenomena reflect the principle of motor equivalence -the capacity of the neuronal structures responsible for movement to select one or another of a set of possible trajectories leading to the goal. Redundancy of degrees of freedom at the neuronal level as well as at the mechanical level of the body's joints makes motor equivalence possible. This sort of equivalence accommodates the overall flexibility of motor behavior.

An integrated behavioral act or a single movement consists of dynamic components. We distinguish six components for the wiping reflex, each associated with a certain functional goal, specific body positions, and motor-equivalent movement patterns. The nervous system can combine the available components in various ways in forming integrated behavioral sequences. The significance of command neuronal organization is discussed with respect to (1) the combinatory strategy of the nervous system and (2) the relation between continuous and discrete forms of motor control. We conclude that voluntary movements are effected by the central nervous system with the help of the mechanisms that underlie the variability and modifiability of innate motor patterns.
Spontaneous tool use and sensorimotor intelligence inCebuscompared with other monkeys and apes
Authors: Chevalier-Skolnikoff Suzanne
Published: February 2010

Spontaneous tool use and sensorimotor intelligence in Cebus were observed to determine whether tool use is discovered fortuitously and learned by trial-and-error or, rather, whether advanced sensorimotor abilities (experimentation and insight) are critical in its ontogeny and evolution.
Shifting frames of reference but the same old point of view
Authors: Gottlieb Gerald L.
Published: February 2010

Models of central control variables (CVs) that are expressed in positional reference frames and rely on proprioception as the dominant specifier of muscle activation patterns have not yet been shown to be adequate for the description of fast, voluntary movement, even of single joints. An alternative model with illustrative data is proposed.
Framing Serbia: the effects of news framing on public support for EU
enlargement
Authors: Lecheler Sophie , De Vreese Claes H.
Published: February 2010

One of the most important activities of the European Union (EU) has been
widening the Union, that is, enlargement. Tapping to what extent and why EU
citizens support future enlargement rounds has become a popular endeavour
among researchers and EU officials. During recent years, a number of studies
have indicated that public support for EU integration is likely to also
depend on how the national news media portray the EU. Based on an
experimental survey design, we test the effects of two news frames on
support for future Serbian EU candidacy. We find that exposure to news
frames has considerable impact on general understanding of Serbian EU
candidacy, issue interpretation, and policy support. This effect is
moderated by political knowledge. Knowledgeable participants were able to
express their thoughts on Serbian EU candidacy more elaborately, whereas
low-knowledge individuals were overall more susceptible to framing effects.
We discuss the implications of our findings for current debates such as
Euroskepticism and decreasing public support for EU integration.
Policy feedback, generational replacement, and attitudes to state
intervention: Eastern and Western Germany, 1990–2006
Authors: Svallfors Stefan
Published: February 2010

This paper tests contested arguments within the institutionalist
literature about the relation between institutional and attitudinal changes,
using the reunified Germany as a case. Eastern Germany constitutes a case
approaching a ‘natural experiment’ for the social sciences, being twice the
receiver of externally imposed institutions. It, therefore, provides a
unique opportunity to closely analyse institutional effects on attitudes, as
in this particular case, the time order of institutional and attitudinal
changes can actually be decided. Using data from the International Social
Survey Program modules on ‘The Role of Government’ (1990, 1996, and 2006),
attitudes towards government responsibilities are compared in Eastern and
Western Germany, and to other countries. Results show a considerable
convergence in attitudes between Eastern and Western Germany – attitudes in
Western Germany are completely stable while attitudes in Eastern Germany
become, overtime, more similar to those found in the West. Furthermore,
comparisons of different birth cohorts show that while considerable attitude
differences between Eastern and Western Germany are still found in 2006
among those who had their forming experiences before the fall of the wall,
differences are virtually nil among those who were still children in 1989.
In summary, the analysis provides strong support for the attitude-forming
effects of institutions, and a clear vindication of institutional theories.
It also points to generational replacement as a key mechanism in translating
institutional change into attitudinal change.
Diagnostik des Delirs
Authors: Meyer Otto , Meyer Sandra , Kressig Reto W.
Published: February 2010

Ein Delir wird klinisch diagnostiziert. Leitsymptome sind eine Störung der Aufmerksamkeit und der Kognition. Begleitende psychomotorische Auffälligkeiten sind häufig. Im Alter überwiegt die hypoaktive Form, die durch eine reduzierte Motorik und Passivität gekennzeichnet ist. Die Symptomatik tritt akut auf, zeigt einen fluktuierenden Verlauf und ist in der Regel reversibel. Alter und dementielle Entwicklung sind die häufigsten prädisponierenden Risikofaktoren für ein Delir. Deshalb sollten bei allen älteren, akut hospitalisierten Patienten die kognitiven Funktionen bei Eintritt untersucht werden. Bei Verdacht kann die Diagnose mit der Confusion Assessment Method (CAM) bestätigt oder ausgeschlossen werden. Da sich ein Delir auch erst im Verlauf entwickeln kann, sind wiederholte Testungen der kognitiven Funktionen angezeigt. Ist ein Delir diagnostiziert, müssen präzipitierende (auslösende) Faktoren gesucht und behandelt werden. Das Spektrum auslösender Faktoren ist sehr heterogen, und häufig können mehrere Faktoren gleichzeitig identifiziert werden. Es gilt zu beachten, dass insbesondere beim älteren Patienten ein Delir das einzige Symptom einer akuten, schweren Erkrankung sein kann und typische Leitsymptome fehlen können. Entsprechend wichtig ist eine sorgfältige klinische Untersuchung und der sinnvolle Einsatz von Zusatzabklärungen unter Berücksichtigung der häufigsten delirauslösenden Faktoren.
Medikamentenassoziiertes Delirium
Authors: Meyer Sandra , Meyer Otto , Kressig Reto W.
Published: February 2010

Das medikamentös induzierte Delirium stellt ein häufiges, potentiell lebensbedrohliches Krankheitsbild dar. Entscheidend ist die rechtzeitige Identifikation sämtlicher delir-assoziierter Medikamente und deren Absetzung sofern keine vitale Indikation vorliegt. Neben den physiologischen Veränderungen im Alter gehören Multimorbidität und Polymedikation zu den wichtigsten prädisponierenden Faktoren. Obwohl eine Vielzahl von Substanzen ein Delirium auslösen können, sind diejenigen mit anticholinergen Eigenschaften aufgrund ihrer Interaktion mit zerebralen Neurorezeptoren von besonderem Interesse. Dies gilt im Speziellen bei Patienten mit einer dementiellen Entwicklung, die wahrscheinlich aufgrund eines bereits bestehenden Mangels an Azetylcholin und einer Störung der Blut-Liquorschranke besonders empfindlich gegenüber anticholinergen Substanzen reagieren können.
Pflegerische Ansätze der nicht-medikamentösen Therapie des Deliriums
Authors: Ulrich-Hermann Anja , Kramer Franz , Spirig Rebecca
Published: February 2010

Die Prävalenz verwirrter Patienten im Spital steigt mit zunehmendem Alter exponentiell an. Im Universitätsspital Basel werden in der Altersgruppe der 70 – 79-jährigen Patienten 16 % als verwirrt und desorientiert eingestuft, in der Altersgruppe der 80 – 89-jährigen bereits 27 % und bei über 90-jährigen 39 %. Delirante Patienten leiden am Verlust ihrer Selbstständigkeit, haben eine signifikant höhere Sterberate und müssen nach Entlasssung häufiger in ein Pflegeheim übertreten. Pflegende haben eine zentrale Rolle im Rahmen des multikomponenten Delir-Managements. Neben Assessment von Medikation, Laborwerten, Oxygenierung oder Ausscheidung, sind personenzentrierte Beurteilungen, Erfassen von Schmerz- und Stresserleben, die Wahrnehmung der Patienten und die Kommunikation wichtige Parameter im Delir-Management. Pflegende benötigen dafür Schulung, Wissen und Erfahrungsevidenz.
Delirprävention – das Basler Modell
Authors: Hasemann Wolfgang , Hafner Martina , Kressig Reto W. , Spirig Rebecca
Published: February 2010

Durch präventive Maßnahmen können auf der aktuellen Evidenzbasis etwa ein Drittel der Delirien verhindert werden. Präventionsmaßnahmen können sich sowohl an Delir-Risikofaktoren als auch an dessen Auslösfaktoren orientieren. Aufgrund dieser Daten wurde im Jahre 2004 auf einer Pilotabteilung am Universitätsspital Basel ein interdisziplinäres Praxisentwicklungsprojekt initiiert und mittels Aktionsforschung mit quantitativen und qualitativen Methoden evaluiert. Die Weiterentwicklung des Projekts umfasste die Zusammenlegung des Demenz- und Delirprojektes zum Basler Demenz-Delirprojekt, die Ausweitung des Projektes auf weitere Fachbereiche wie der Neurologie und die Entwicklung eines Delirmanagements auf den Intensivstationen. Derzeit werden die medizinischen Stationen mittels eines Multimethoden Forschungsprojektes ins Delirmanagement integriert. Als Intervention wurden Delir-Präventionsmaßnahmen entwickelt, Ressourcenpflegende ausgebildet und ein systematisches Delir-Screening etabliert, welches zukünftig auch den mentalen Status beim Eintritt beinhalten wird. Es konnte gezeigt werden, dass auf der Pilotabteilung die Häufigkeit des Delirvorkommens von 25 % auf 11 % sank. Der Gesamtpflegeaufwand stieg nicht an, sondern sank in der Nacht, während er auf den anderen Stationen nachts anstieg. Insgesamt fand das Projekt eine große Akzeptanz bei Pflegefachpersonen und Ärzten. Von den interprofessionellen und interdisziplinären Delirpräventionsmaßnahmen profitierten Patienten, Pflegende und Ärzte gleichermaßen.
Effects of Adiposity and 30 Days of Caloric Restriction Upon Protein Metabolism in Moderately vs. Severely Obese Women
Authors: Henderson Gregory C. , Nadeau Daniel , Horton Edward S. , Nair K. Sreekumaran
Published: February 2010

Protein metabolism adapts during caloric restriction (CR) to minimize protein loss, and it is unclear whether greater fat stores favorably affect this response. We sought to determine whether protein metabolism is related to degree of obesity and whether the response to CR is impacted by pre‐CR adiposity level. Whole body protein metabolism was studied in 12 obese women over a wide range of BMI (30–53 kg/m2) as inpatients using [1‐13C]leucine as a tracer following 5 days of a weight‐maintaining diet and then after 30 days of CR (1,400 kcal deficit with maintained protein intake). When expressed as total rates, per body weight (BW) or per fat‐free mass (FFM), leucine rate of appearance (Ra), and nonoxidative leucine disposal (NOLD) were significantly higher in the individuals with a greater degree of obesity (P< 0.05). Leucine oxidation (Rox) was also higher in more highly obese women when expressed as a total rate (P< 0.05) but not if expressed per BW or FFM. CR reduced BW, FFM, and fat mass (P< 0.001), and declines were relatively similar between individuals. CR reduced Ra (P< 0.001), NOLD (P< 0.01), and Rox (P< 0.05), and the relative decline was not affected by differences in fat mass. CR‐induced declines were significant even when Ra and NOLD were normalized to BW or FFM. We conclude that fat mass, like FFM, is a key determinant of protein turnover. However, during CR, higher fat mass does not favorably alter the response of protein metabolism and does not mitigate the loss of FFM.
Clinical Profile and Management of Patients With Hypertension and Chronic Ischemic Heart Disease According to BMI
Authors: Barrios Vivencio , Escobar Carlos , Calderón Alberto
Published: February 2010

Obesity is associated with numerous risk factors and comorbidities such as hypertension, metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. However, numerous studies have reported an obesity paradox; the overweight and obese patients with established cardiovascular disease have better prognosis than those with a BMI <25 kg/m2. This study was designed to assess potential differences in the clinical profile and management of hypertensive outpatients with chronic ischemic heart disease in obese and lean patients that could explain these two apparently contradictory points. Overweight and obesity were defined as a BMI 25–29.9 kg/m2 and ≥30 kg/m2, respectively. Cardiovascular risk factors goals were considered according to European Society of Hypertension‐European Society of Cardiology 2003, National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III and American Diabetes Association 2005 guidelines. A sample of 2,024 patients (66.8 ± 10.1 years; 31.7% women) was included. Of these, 0.1% had a BMI <20 kg/m2; 17.1% BMI 20–24.9 kg/m2; 53.7% BMI 25–29.9 kg/m2; 23.7% BMI 30–34.9 kg/m2; 4.3% BMI 35–39.9 kg/m2; and 1.1% BMI ≥40 kg/m2. The subgroup of patients with BMI ≥30 kg/m2 had a higher proportion of women, diastolic dysfunction, diabetes, dyslipidemia, left ventricular hypertrophy, and heart failure. There was an inverse relationship between risk factors control rates and BMI (all comparisons BMI 20–24.9 kg/m2 vs. 25–29.9 kg/m2 vs. ≥30 kg/m2): blood pressure (BP) control (51.7% vs. 42.4% vs. 29.2%, P < 0.001); low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C) control (35.2% vs. 30.5% vs. 27.9%, P = 0.03) and diabetes control (38.6% vs. 27.6% vs. 22.2%, P = 0.023). In conclusion, in patients with hypertension and chronic ischemic heart disease, as BMI increases, the clinical profile worsens as well as risk factors control rates.
Deceptive chemical signals induced by a plant virus attract insect vectors to inferior hosts
Authors: Mauck Kerry E. , De Moraes Consuelo M. , Mescher Mark C.
Published: February 2010

Previous studies have shown that vector-borne pathogens can alter the phenotypes of their hosts and vectors in ways that influence the frequency and nature of interactions between them, with significant implications for the transmission and spread of disease. For insect-borne pathogens, host odors are particularly likely targets for manipulation, because both plant- and animal-feeding insects use volatile compounds derived from their hosts as key foraging cues. Here, we document the effects of a widespread plant pathogen, Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV), on the quality and attractiveness of one of its host plants (Cucurbita pepocv. Dixie) for two aphid vectors,Myzus persicaeandAphis gossypii. Our results indicate that CMV greatly reduces host-plant quality—aphids performed poorly on infected plants and rapidly emigrated from them—but increases the attractiveness of infected plants to aphids by inducing elevated emissions of a plant volatile blend otherwise similar to that emitted by healthy plants. Thus, CMV appears to attract vectors deceptively to infected plants from which they then disperse rapidly, a pattern highly conducive to the nonpersistent transmission mechanism employed by CMV and very different from the pattern previously reported for persistently transmitted viruses that require sustained aphid feeding for transmission. In addition to providing a documented example of a pathogen inducing a deceptive signal of host-plant quality to vectors, our results suggest that the transmission mechanism is a major factor shaping pathogen-induced changes in host-plant phenotypes. Furthermore, our findings yield a general hypothesis that, when vector-borne plant or animal pathogens reduce host quality for vectors, pathogen-induced changes in host phenotypes that enhance vector attraction frequently will involve the exaggeration of existing host-location cues.
Human and mouse adipose-derived cells support feeder-independent induction of pluripotent stem cells
Authors: Sugii Shigeki , Kida Yasuyuki , Kawamura Teruhisa , Suzuki Jotaro , Vassena Rita , Yin Yun-Qiang , Lutz Margaret K. , Berggren W. Travis , Izpisúa Belmonte Juan Carlos , Evans Ronald M.
Published: February 2010

Although adipose tissue is an expandable and readily attainable source of proliferating, multipotent stem cells, its potential for use in regenerative medicine has not been extensively explored. Here we report that adult human and mouse adipose-derived stem cells can be reprogrammed to induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells with substantially higher efficiencies than those reported for human and mouse fibroblasts. Unexpectedly, both human and mouse iPS cells can be obtained in feeder-free conditions. We discovered that adipose-derived stem cells intrinsically express high levels of pluripotency factors such as basic FGF, TGFβ, fibronectin, and vitronectin and can serve as feeders for both autologous and heterologous pluripotent cells. These results demonstrate a great potential for adipose-derived cells in regenerative therapeutics and as a model for studying the molecular mechanisms of feeder-free iPS generation and maintenance.
Selective targeting of radiation-resistant tumor-initiating cells
Authors: Zhang Mei , Atkinson Rachel L. , Rosen Jeffrey M.
Published: February 2010

Tumor-initiating cells (TICs) have been shown both experimentally and clinically to be resistant to radiation and chemotherapy, potentially resulting in residual disease that can lead to recurrence. In this study, we demonstrate that TICs isolated from p53 null mouse mammary tumors repair DNA damage following in vivo ionizing radiation more efficiently than the bulk of the tumor cells. Down-regulation of phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted on chromosome 10 (PTEN) was observed both in fluorescence activated cell sorting (FACS)-isolated TICs as compared to non-TICs and in TIC-enriched mammospheres as compared to primary tumor cells depleted of TICs. This effect was accompanied by increased Akt signaling, as well as by the direct activation of the canonical Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway specifically within the TIC subpopulation by phosphorylation of β-catenin on serine 552. Using limiting dilution transplantation performed on p53 null tumor cells transduced with Wnt reporter lentivirus, we demonstrated that FACS sorting of cells expressing TOP-eGFP resulted in a marked enrichment for TICs. Furthermore, FACS analysis demonstrated that cells with active Wnt signaling overlapped with the TIC subpopulation characterized previously using cell surface markers. Finally, pharmacological inhibition of the Akt pathway in both mammospheres and syngeneic mice bearing tumors was shown to inhibit canonical Wnt signaling as well as the repair of DNA damage selectively in TICs, sensitizing them to ionizing radiation treatment. Thus, these results suggest that pretreatment with Akt inhibitors before ionizing radiation treatment may be of potential therapeutic benefit to patients.
Defining the ATM-mediated barrier to tumorigenesis in somatic mammary cells following ErbB2 activation
Authors: Reddy Jay P. , Peddibhotla Sirisha , Bu Wen , Zhao Jing , Haricharan Svasti , Du Yi-Chieh Nancy , Podsypanina Katrina , Rosen Jeffrey M. , Donehower Larry A. , Li Yi
Published: February 2010

p53, apoptosis, and senescence are frequently activated in preneoplastic lesions and are barriers to progression to malignancy. These barriers have been suggested to result from an ATM-mediated DNA damage response (DDR), which may follow oncogene-induced hyperproliferation and ensuing DNA replication stress. To elucidate the currently untested role of DDR in breast cancer initiation, we examined the effect of oncogene expression in several murine models of breast cancer. We did not observe a detectable DDR in early hyperplastic lesions arising in transgenic mice expressing several different oncogenes. However, DDR signaling was strongly induced in preneoplastic lesions arising from individual mammary cells transduced in vivo by retroviruses expressing eitherPyMTorErbB2. Thus, activation of an oncogene after normal tissue development causes a DDR. Furthermore, in this somatic ErbB2 tumor model, ATM, and thus DDR, is required for p53 stabilization, apoptosis, and senescence. In palpable tumors in this model, p53 stabilization and apoptosis are lost, but unexpectedly senescence remains in many tumor cells. Thus, this murine model fully recapitulates early DDR signaling; the eventual suppression of its endpoints in tumorigenesis provides compelling evidence that ErbB2-induced aberrant mammary cell proliferation leads to an ATM-mediated DDR that activates apoptosis and senescence, and at least the former must be overcome to progress to malignancy. This in vivo study also uncovers an unexpected effect of ErbB2 activation previously known for its prosurvival roles, and suggests that protection of the ATM-mediated DDR-p53 signaling pathway may be important in breast cancer prevention.
Surface organization of aqueous MgCl
2
and application to atmospheric marine aerosol chemistry
Authors: Casillas-Ituarte Nadia N. , Callahan Karen M. , Tang Cheng Y. , Chen Xiangke , Roeselová Martina , Tobias Douglas J. , Allen Heather C.
Published: February 2010

Inorganic salts in marine aerosols play an active role in atmospheric chemistry, particularly in coastal urban regions. The study of the interactions of these ions with water molecules at the aqueous surface helps to elucidate the role of inorganic cations and anions in atmospheric processes. We present surface vibrational sum frequency generation (SFG) spectroscopic and molecular dynamics (MD) studies of aqueous MgCl
2
surfaces as models of marine aerosol. Spectroscopy results reveal that the disturbance of the hydrogen bonding environment of the air/aqueous interface is dependent on the MgCl
2
concentration. At low concentrations (< 1 M) minor changes are observed. At concentrations above 1 M the hydrogen bonding environment is highly perturbed. The 2.1 M intermediate concentration solution shows the largest SFG response relative to the other solutions including concentrations as high as 4.7 M. The enhancement of SFG signal observed for the 2.1 M solution is attributed to a larger SFG-active interfacial region and more strongly oriented water molecules relative to other concentrations. MD simulations reveal concentration dependent compression of stratified layers of ions and water orientation differences at higher concentrations. SFG and MD studies of the dangling OH of the surface water reveal that the topmost water layer is affected structurally at high concentrations (> 3.1 M). Finally, the MgCl
2
concentration effect on a fatty acid coated aqueous surface was investigated and SFG spectra reveal that deprotonation of the carboxylic acid of atmospherically relevant palmitic acid (PA) is accompanied by binding of the Mg
2+
to the PA headgroup.