bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fractionated feridex and positive contrast: In vivo MR imaging of atherosclerosis
Authors: Briley‐Saebo Karen C. , Mani Venkatesh , Hyafil Fabien , Cornily Jean‐Christophe , Fayad Zahi A.
Published: March 2008

Macrophages have been identified as a critical factor in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. Ultrasmall iron oxide particles (USPIOs) have been used to passively target intraplaque macrophages. For dextran‐based USPIOs, uptake into macrophages may be modulated by particle size. The aim of the current study was to test the efficacy of fractionated Feridex with respect to macrophage uptake in atherosclerotic rabbits. Fractionation of Feridex resulted in a 15‐nm USPIO that exhibited a blood half‐life of 15.9 h and liver retention of 6.4%. Blood clearance and liver retention of Feridex was 0.46 h and 60%, following administration of 4.8 mg Fe/kg Feridex. Atherosclerotic rabbits were administered 0.5 or 4.8 mg Fe/kg dosages of either fractionated Feridex or Feridex. MRI was performed at 1.5T over a 24‐h time period postinjection. Perls and RAM‐11 staining was performed to identify iron deposition. MRI showed a dose‐dependent signal loss using conventional gradient echo (GRE) sequences following administration of fractionated Feridex. Even at low dose, significant signal loss was observed that correlated with histology. No signal attenuation or iron deposition was observed in the vessel wall of rabbits administered Feridex. Results of this study suggest that it may be possible to optimize USPIOs for intraplaque macrophage detection. Magn Reson Med 59:721–730, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Spinal cord blood flow measurement by arterial spin labeling
Authors: Duhamel Guillaume , Callot Virginie , Cozzone Patrick J. , Kober Frank
Published: March 2008

The assessment of spinal cord (SC) hemodynamics, and especially SC blood flow (SCBF), plays a key role in the pathophysiological description and understanding of many SC diseases such as ischemia, or spinal cord injury. SCBF has been previously measured in animals with invasive techniques such as autoradiography or labeled microspheres; no MR technique, however, has been proposed so far. The possibility of quantitatively measuring SCBF in mice using MRI was investigated using a presaturated FAIR (flow‐sensitive alternating inversion recovery) arterial spin labeling (ASL) technique. SCBF measurements were performed at the cervical level of the mouse as well as on the brain so as to use cerebral blood flow (CBF) values as internal references. With a spatial resolution of 133 × 133 μm2 for the SCBF maps, absolute regional perfusion values could be measured within the different structures of the SC (gray matter, white matter, and cerebrospinal fluid area). Similar perfusion values were found in SC gray matter (330 ± 90 mL/100g/min) and in brain (295 ± 22 mL/100g/min for thalamus). This result, in agreement with SCBF/CBF measurements performed with non‐MR techniques, opens new perspectives for noninvasive longitudinal and in vivo animal studies. Application to human experiments may also be possible. Magn Reson Med 59:846–854, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Imaging brain vasculature with BOLD microscopy: MR detection limits determined by in vivo two‐photon microscopy
Authors: Park Sung‐Hong , Masamoto Kazuto , Hendrich Kristy , Kanno Iwao , Kim Seong‐Gi
Published: March 2008

Rat brain vasculature was imaged at 9.4T with blood oxygenation level‐dependent (BOLD) microscopy. Data were acquired without exogenous contrast agent in <35 min using 3D gradient‐echo imaging with 78‐μm isotropic resolution. Detailed vascular patterns including intracortical veins and some branches were observed in simple magnitude‐contrast data acquired at an experimentally optimized echo time. The venous origin of the dark patterns was confirmed by oxygenation‐dependent studies, and when the systemic arterial oxygen saturation level was <80% BOLD microscopy revealed additional intracortical vessels presumed to be of arterial origin. Quantification shows a decrease of intracortical venous density with depth. The full width at half‐minimum intensity was 90–190 μm for most intracortical venous vessels identifiable by BOLD venography. Since actual diameters are not directly quantifiable by BOLD, we also measured diameter‐dependent intracortical venous density in vivo by two‐photon excitation fluorescent microscopy. Density comparisons between the two modalities, along with computer simulations, show that venous vessels as small as ≈16–30 μm diameter are detectable with 9.4T BOLD microscopy under our experimental conditions. Magn Reson Med 59:855–865, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Melt polycondensation of L‐lactic acid catalyzed by 1,3‐dialkylimidazolium ionic liquids
Authors: Wang Weichao , Wu Linbo , Huang Yuan , Li Bo‐Geng
Published: March 2008

BACKGROUND: In syntheses of biodegradable and bioresorbable polymers, efficient metal‐free catalysts are very desirable as the resulting products may be more biocompatible. As an attempt to find new metal‐free catalysts, 1,3‐dialkylimidazolium salts, the most commonly used ionic liquids or organic melt salts, were used as single‐component catalysts in the melt polycondensation of L‐lactic acid for the first time. The resulting poly(L‐lactic acid) (PLLA) was characterized using gel permeation chromatography, 13C NMR, DSC and polarimetry.

RESULTS: It has been found that less bulky substituents on the imidazolium ring are conducive to catalytic activity. PLLA with molar mass of about 20 000 g mol−1 was synthesized at high yield (over 70%) in the presence of various 1,3‐dialkylimidazolium salts. The product exhibits satisfactory color (white to slightly yellow), optical purity (89–95%) and crystallinity (40–55%). A possible catalytic mechanism is proposed.

CONCLUSION: As compared with the well‐known binary catalyst system SnCl2 · 2H2O/toluene sulfonic acid, the catalysts used in this investigation are better in terms of increasing PLLA yield and preventing discoloration and comparable in terms of racemization. Copyright © 2008 Society of Chemical Industry
Synthesis and characterization of hydrogels containing biodegradable polymers
Authors: Cretu Adina , Kipping Martin , Adler Hans‐Jürgen , Kuckling Dirk
Published: March 2008

BACKGROUND: Amphiphilic block and graft copolymers constitute a very interesting class of polymers with potential for biomedical applications, due to their special characteristics, which derive from the combination of properties of hydrophilic and hydrophobic moieties. In this work, the synthesis and biodegradation of poly(2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate)‐graft‐poly(L‐lactide) are studied.

RESULTS: The graft copolymers were synthesized using the macromonomer technique. In a first step, methacryloyl‐terminated poly(L‐lactide) macromonomers were synthesized in a wide molecular weight range using different catalysts. Subsequently, these macromonomers were copolymerized with 2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate in order to obtain a graft copolymer. These new materials resemble hydrogel scaffolds with a biodegradable component. The biodegradation was studied in hydrolytic and enzymatic environments. The influence of different parameters (molecular weight, crystallinity, ratio between hydrophilic and hydrophobic components) on the degradation rate was investigated.

CONCLUSION: Based on this study it will be possible to tailor the release properties of biodegradable materials. In addition, the materials will show good biocompatibility due to the hydrophilic poly(2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate) hydrogel scaffold. This kind of material has potential for many applications, like controlled drug‐delivery systems or biodegradable implants. Copyright © 2008 Society of Chemical Industry
Plasma Amination of Low‐Density Polyethylene by DBD Afterglows at Atmospheric Pressure
Authors: Klages Claus‐Peter , Grishin Artur
Published: March 2008

Surfaces of LDPE can be functionalized with primary amino groups using the afterglows from dielectric barrier discharges in N2, N2 + H2, and N2 + NH3 mixtures at atmospheric pressure. Quantitative analysis by a recently developed ATR FT‐IR spectroscopic method allows calculation of the number of NH2 groups generated per unit area. Treatment in N2 + H2 afterglows was found to be most efficient in terms of area densities of primary amines achieved (more than 15 nm−2), but appreciable quantities of NH2, up to about 3 nm−2, are also obtained in pure N2. Possible mechanisms of the amination reaction and the roles of gas additives are discussed.

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Potential Use of CL‐20 in TNT/ETPE‐Based Melt Cast Formulations
Authors: Thiboutot Sonia , Brousseau Patrick , Ampleman Guy , Pantea Dana , Côté Sébastien
Published: March 2008

An attempt was made to introduce CL‐20 in a TNT/energetic thermoplastic elastomer (ETPE)‐based melt cast formulation, to obtain an insensitive composition with reduced adverse environmental properties. A loading limit of 42% w/w of CL‐20 in melted TNT was observed, while it should have been around 70%. This paper describes the investigation that was undertaken to understand the observed phenomena. It was demonstrated that CL‐20 undergoes structural alterations in melted TNT. The relative solubility of CL‐20, RDX and HMX in melted TNT was determined and the α‐, β‐, γ‐ and ε‐CL‐20 were prepared and characterized using Raman spectroscopy and DTA. CL‐20 was mixed in melted TNT, as much as 4.2 g of CL‐20 dissolved in 100 g of TNT. This allowed a transformation from ε to β‐CL‐20 and a modification of CL‐20 particle size and distribution. The later modification induced a raise in CL‐20 specific surface and was responsible for the loading limit, while the transformation to β‐CL‐20 caused an increase in sensitivity and a decrease in density. This indicates that the use of CL‐20 in TNT melt cast is not promising. Our study also showed that CL‐20 is sensitive to morphological transformations, which should be taken into consideration in future processing using this compound.
Mechanism of Solid Propellant Combustion Submitted to a High Plasma Flux
Authors: Alimi Roger , Berdichevsky Vadim
Published: March 2008

A simplified mechanism of the plasma effect on the combustion on different types of propellants is presented. The model provides a semi‐quantitative prediction of the burning rate enhancement that should be expected for a given propellant composition and structure. Depending on the propellant structure and composition, one expects a burning rate enhancement either to disappear or to survive a certain time after the plasma injection has been turned off. In order to estimate the internal front propagation rate, we have built a simplified model of the RDX ignition inside the matrix. A cubic lattice topology has been assumed and the ignition front extends from one layer to its nearest neighbor. The propagation rate was found to be dependent on the lattice constant, the particle size, the thermo‐chemical properties of the RDX particles and the matrix background.
Cross‐resistance between a Bacillus thuringiensis Cry toxin and non‐Bt insecticides in the diamondback moth
Authors: Sayyed Ali H , Moores Graham , Crickmore Neil , Wright Denis J
Published: March 2008

BACKGROUND: Bacillus thuringiensis Berliner (Bt) crystal (Cry) toxins are expressed in various transgenic crops and are also used as sprays in integrated pest management and organic agricultural systems. The diamondback moth (Plutella xylostella L.) is a major worldwide pest of crucifer crops and one that has readily acquired field resistance to a broad range of insecticides.

RESULTS: Selection of a subpopulation of the P. xylostella SERD4 population with the pyrethroid deltamethrin increased resistance to both deltamethrin and Cry1Ac relative to an unselected subpopulation. Selection of a second subpopulation with the Bt toxin Cry1Ac also increased resistance to both Cry1Ac and deltamethrin. A complementation test between the Cry1Ac‐selected and deltamethrin‐selected subpopulations suggested the presence of a common genetic locus or loci that control resistance to both insecticides. A piperonyl butoxide analogue with potent inhibitory activity against insect esterases significantly increased the toxicity of Cry1Ac and deltamethrin against the respective resistant subpopulations, but showed no such synergism with the unselected subpopulation of SERD4.

CONCLUSION: Selection of one resistance phenotype resulted in the simultaneous selection of the other. This phenomenon could be due to a single mechanism acting against both classes of insecticide or to genetically linked, but separate, mechanisms. Copyright © 2008 Society of Chemical Industry
Informing the selection of futility stopping thresholds: case study from a late‐phase clinical trial
Authors: Hughes Sara , Cuffe Robert L. , Lieftucht Alfons , Garrett Nichols W.
Published: March 2008

In an environment where (i) potential risks to subjects participating in clinical studies need to be managed carefully, (ii) trial costs are increasing, and (iii) there are limited research resources available, it is necessary to prioritize research projects and sometimes re‐prioritize if early indications suggest that a trial has low probability of success. Futility designs allow this reprioritization to take place. This paper reviews a number of possible futility methods available and presents a case study from a late‐phase study of an HIV therapeutic, which utilized conditional power‐based stopping thresholds. The two most challenging aspects of incorporating a futility interim analysis into a trial design are the selection of optimal stopping thresholds and the timing of the analysis, both of which require the balancing of various risks. The paper outlines a number of graphical aids that proved useful in explaining the statistical risks involved to the study team. Further, the paper outlines a decision analysis undertaken which combined expectations of drug performance with conditional power calculations in order to produce probabilities of different interim and final outcomes, and which ultimately led to the selection of the final stopping thresholds. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A novel workflow control system for Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry allows for unique on‐the‐fly data‐dependent decisions
Authors: Taban Ioana M. , van der Burgt Yuri E. M. , Duursma Marc , Takáts Zoltán , Seynen Marco , Konijnenburg Marco , Vijftigschild Anton , Attema Idsart , Heeren Ron M. A.
Published: March 2008

In this paper a novel workflow‐based data acquisition and control system for Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (FTICR‐MS) is presented that facilitates a fast on‐the‐fly decision‐making process for a wide variety of data‐dependent experiments. Several new workflow implementations demonstrate the flexibility and benefit of this approach for rapid dynamic experimental design on a chromatographic timescale. The different sequence, evaluation, decision and monitoring modules are described using a selected set of examples. During a tandem liquid chromatography (LC)/FTICR‐MS experiment the system is used to dynamically switch between various dissociation techniques such as electron capture dissociation (ECD) and sustained off‐resonance irradiation (SORI) depending on the charge state of a tryptic peptide peak. The use of this workflow‐based system for imaging FTICR‐MS using a desorption electrospray ionization (DESI) source demonstrates the possibility of external control of the workflow by feedback from an imaging sample stage. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Role of cytokines in mediating mechanical hypernociception in a model of delayed‐type hypersensitivity in mice
Authors: Cunha Thiago M. , Verri Waldiceu A. , Valério Daniel A. , Guerrero Ana T. , Nogueira Luciana G. , Vieira Silvio M. , Souza Danielle G. , Teixeira Mauro M. , Poole Stephen , Ferreira Sergio H. , Cunha Fernando Q.
Published: March 2008

In the present study, we used the electronic version of the von Frey test to investigate the role of cytokines (TNF‐α and IL‐1β) and chemokines (KC/CXCL‐1) in the genesis of mechanical hypernociception during antigen‐induced inflammation in mice. The nociceptive test consisted of evoking a hindpaw flexion reflex with a hand‐held force transducer (electronic anesthesiometer) adapted with a 0.5mm2 polypropylene tip. The intraplantar administration of methylated bovine serum albumin (mBSA) in previously immunized (IM), but not in sham‐immunized (SI) mice, induced mechanical hypernociception in a dose‐dependent manner. Hypernociception induced by antigen was reduced in animals pretreated with IL‐1ra and reparixin (a non‐competitive allosteric inhibitor of CXCR2), and in TNF receptor type 1 deficient (TNFR1−/−) mice. Consistently, antigen challenge induced a time‐dependent release of TNF‐α, IL‐1β and KC/CXCL‐1 in IM, but not in SI, mice. The increase in TNF‐α levels preceded the increase in IL‐1β and KC/CXCL1. Antigen‐induced release of IL‐1β and KC/CXCL1 was reduced in TNFR1−/− mice, and TNF‐α‐induced hypernociception was inhibited by IL‐1ra and reparixin. Hypernociception induced by IL‐1β in immunized mice was inhibited by indomethacin, whereas KC/CXCL1‐induced hypernociception was inhibited by indomethacin and guanethidine. Antigen‐induced hypernociception was reduced by indomethacin and guanethidine and abolished by the two drugs combined. Together, these results suggest that inflammation associated with an adaptive immune response induces hypernociception that is mediated by an initial release of TNF‐α, which triggers the subsequent release of IL‐1β and KC/CXCL1. The latter cytokines in turn stimulate the release of the direct‐acting final mediators, prostanoids and sympathetic amines.
Geochemistry of metavolcanics in the southern Hövsgöl area (northern Mongolia): geodynamic implications
Authors: Medvedev A.Ya. , Gordienko I.V. , Gornova M.A. , Almukhamedov A.I.
Published: March 2008

The lava sequence of the Alag-Zaar-Gol River catchment (southern Hövsgöl area, northern Mongolia) is an accretionary prism composed of metamorphosed basalt and, less often, andesite alternating with siliceous tuff. The protolith of metabasalts may have formed in island-arc or ocean-island environments, and andesites were, possibly, derived from ocean-island varieties. Volcanics of different types are found coexisting within the same thrust sheets, which may be due to thrusting in the course of postmagmatic tectonic events.
The role of skeletal and nonskeletal biogenic material in the accumulation of organic matter of the Bazhenov Formation
Authors: Zanin Yu.N. , Zamirailova A.G. , Livshits V.R. , Eder V.G.
Published: March 2008

Organic matter of the Upper Jurassic-Lower Cretaceous highly carbonaceous black-shale Bazhenov Formation in the central part of the West Siberian sea basin is composed of predominantly sapropelic planktonogenic material, which was earlier assumed to have derived from siliceous-skeletal microorganisms (first of all, radiolarians) and nonskeletal ones (bacteria and algae). Comparative analysis for organic carbon in the formation rocks and in radiolarites and radiolarian oozes from some other areas showed that the siliceous-skeletal organisms make up <1% of the organic matter of the Bazhenov Formation. This is confirmed by correlation analysis of two main types of Bazhenov rocks — siliceous-argillaceous (bazhenovites) and argillaceous (mudstones), — which showed the absence of correlation between the contents of organic carbon and quartz (which is mainly authigenic) for both rocks.
Monte-Carlo simulation for estimating topographic disturbance to heat flow data
Authors: Ayunov D.E. , Duchkov A.D.
Published: March 2008

The Earth’s surface topography disturbs the thermal field making measured superficial thermal gradients (heat flow) higher or lower than the deep value. Topographic disturbance can be removed from data by applying the respective correction. We estimated the effect of the rugged bottom of Lake Baikal on thermal gradients from the vicinity of boreholes BDP-93 and BDP-96 drilled in the lake sediments and deep borehole L-2 on the western shore of the South Baikal basin near Listvyanka Village. The corrections were computed using a Monte-Carlo simulation algorithm specially designed to quantify the effect of surface topography on the thermal field. The performance of the algorithm was checked by a test example. The corrections turned out to be vanishing in the area of underwater drilling but significant at L-2 where the thermal gradient in the upper 1 km of rocks was about 20% underestimated. The corrected heat flow in L-2 data increased from 50 to 60 mW/m2 and approached the values measured in the central South Baikal basin.
Detection of local failures after management of nasopharyngeal carcinoma: a prospective, controlled trial
Authors: Ragab S M , Erfan F A , Khalifa M A , Korayem E M , Tawfik H A
Published: March 2008

Objectives:

To conduct a prospective study (1) to evaluate and compare the efficacies of nasopharyngeal endoscopy and computed tomography in the diagnosis of local failure of external beam radiotherapy for nasopharyngeal carcinoma, and (2) to assess whether multiple endoscopic nasopharyngeal biopsies are superior to a single, targeted biopsy, for the same purpose.

Methods:

Forty-six patients who had been treated with external beam radiotherapy for primary nasopharyngeal carcinoma were enrolled in the study. For every patient recruited, computed tomography, rigid nasopharyngeal endoscopy and nasopharyngeal biopsies were performed 12 weeks after radiotherapy.

Results:

Twelve weeks after treatment, six patients (13 per cent) had evident disease on histological examination of biopsies. Nasopharyngeal endoscopy showed a sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value of 66.6, 95, 66.6 and 95 per cent, respectively. There was statistically significant agreement between the endoscopic findings and the histological findings (Kappa reliability coefficient = 0.617, p < 0.01). Computed tomography showed a sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value of 50, 45, 12 and 85.7 per cent, respectively. There was no statistically significant agreement between the computed tomography findings and the histological findings (Kappa reliability coefficient = 0.021, p > 0.05). A targeted, single biopsy performed under endoscopic control demonstrated excellent sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value, being 83.3, 100, 100 and 97.5 per cent, respectively. The Kappa test showed a very statistically significant agreement between the histological findings for the single and the multiple endoscopic biopsies (Kappa reliability coefficient = 0.897, p < 0.001).

Conclusions:

Rigid nasopharyngeal endoscopy should be considered the primary follow-up tool after radiotherapy treatment of nasopharyngeal carcinoma, with computed tomography being reserved for patients with histological or symptomatic indications. Routine postnasal biopsies are not necessary, given the excellent specificity and negative predictive value of rigid nasopharyngeal endoscopy. Single, targeted endoscopic biopsy provides an excellent alternative to the usual multiple biopsies. In addition, it reduces cost, time, morbidity and patient discomfort.
Correlated stopping power of a chain of N charges
Authors: BRET ANTOINE , DEUTSCH CLAUDE
Published: March 2008

We evaluate the correlated stopping power of a swift chain of N charges aligned with its (non-relativistic) velocity. We find that the distance required between two charges for the chain to act as a separated set of isolated charges is much larger than the dynamical screening length because the wake effect is very important when the chain elements are situated close to each other.
The health impact of polyparasitism in humans: are we under-estimating the burden of parasitic diseases?
Authors: PULLAN R. , BROOKER S.
Published: March 2008

Parasitic infections are widespread throughout the tropics and sub-tropics, and infection with multiple parasite species is the norm rather than the exception. Despite the ubiquity of polyparasitism, its public health significance has been inadequately studied. Here we review available studies investigating the nutritional and pathological consequences of multiple infections withPlasmodiumand helminth infection and, in doing so, encourage a reassessment of the disease burden caused by polyparasitism. The available evidence is conspicuously sparse but is suggestive that multiple human parasite species may have an additive and/or multiplicative impact on nutrition and organ pathology. Existing studies suffer from a number of methodological limitations and adequately designed studies are clearly necessary. Current methods of estimating the potential global morbidity due to parasitic diseases underestimate the health impact of polyparasitism, and possible reasons for this are presented. As international strategies to control multiple parasite species are rolled-out, there is a number of options to investigate the complexity of polyparasitism, and it is hoped that that the parasitological resarch community will grasp the opportunity to understand better the health of polyparasitism in humans.
N-acetyl D-glucosamine stimulates growth in procyclic forms ofTrypanosoma bruceiby inducing a metabolic shift
Authors: EBIKEME C. E. , PEACOCK L. , COUSTOU V. , RIVIERE L. , BRINGAUD F. , GIBSON W. C. , BARRETT M. P.
Published: March 2008

The lectin-inhibitory sugars D-glucosamine (GlcN) and N-acetyl D-glucosamine (GlcNAc) are known to enhance susceptibility of the tsetse fly vector to infection withTrypanosoma brucei. GlcNAc also stimulates trypanosome growthin vitroin the absence of any factor derived from the fly. Here, we show that GlcNAc cannot be used as a direct energy source, nor is it internalized by trypanosomes. It does, however, inhibit glucose uptake by binding to the hexose transporter. Deprivation of D-glucose leads to a switch from a metabolism based predominantly on substrate level phosphorylation of D-glucose to a more efficient one based mainly on oxidative phosphorylation using L-proline. Procyclic form trypanosomes grow faster and to higher density in D-glucose-depleted medium than in D-glucose-rich medium. The ability of trypanosomes to use L-proline as an energy source can be regulated depending upon the availability of D-glucose and here we show that this regulation is a graded response to D-glucose availability and determined by the overall metabolic state of the cell. It appears, therefore, that the growth stimulatory effect of GlcNAcin vitrorelates to the switch from D-glucose to L-proline metabolism. In tsetse flies, however, it seems probable that the effect of GlcNAc is independent of this switch as pre-adaptation to growth in proline had no effect on tsetse infection rate.
Consciousness, accessibility, and the mesh between psychology and neuroscience
Authors: Block Ned
Published: March 2008

How can we disentangle the neural basis of phenomenal consciousness from the neural machinery of the cognitive access that underlies reports of phenomenal consciousness? We see the problem in stark form if we ask how we can tell whether representations inside a Fodorian module are phenomenally conscious. The methodology would seem straightforward: Find the neural natural kinds that are the basis of phenomenal consciousness in clear cases – when subjects are completely confident and we have no reason to doubt their authority – and look to see whether those neural natural kinds exist within Fodorian modules. But a puzzle arises: Do we include the machinery underlying reportability within the neural natural kinds of the clear cases? If the answer is “Yes,” then there can be no phenomenally conscious representations in Fodorian modules. But how can we know if the answer is “Yes”? The suggested methodology requires an answer to the question it was supposed to answer! This target article argues for an abstract solution to the problem and exhibits a source of empirical data that is relevant, data that show that in a certain sense phenomenal consciousness overflows cognitive accessibility. I argue that we can find a neural realizer of this overflow if we assume that the neural basis of phenomenal consciousness does not include the neural basis of cognitive accessibility and that this assumption is justified (other things being equal) by the explanations it allows.
Access to phenomenality: A necessary condition of phenomenality?
Authors: Balog Katalin
Published: March 2008

Block argues that relevant data in psychology and neuroscience show that access consciousness is not constitutively necessary for phenomenality. However, a phenomenal state can be access conscious in two radically different ways. Its content can be access conscious, or its phenomenality can be access conscious. I argue that while Block's thesis is right when it is formulated in terms of the first notion of access consciousness, there is an alternative hypothesis about the relationship between phenomenality and access in terms of the second notion that is not touched by Block's argument.
Experience and agency: Slipping the mesh
Authors: Clark Andy , Kiverstein Julian
Published: March 2008

Can we really make sense of the idea (implied by Block's treatment) that there can be isolated islets of experience that are not even potentially available as fodder for a creature's conscious choices and decisions? The links between experience and the availability of information to guide conscious choice and inform reasoned action may be deeper than the considerations concerning (mere) reportability suggest.
Many ways to awareness: A developmental perspective on cognitive access
Authors: Izard Carroll E. , Quinn Paul C. , Most Steven B.
Published: March 2008

Block's target article makes a significant contribution toward sorting the neural bases of phenomenal consciousness from the neural systems that underlie cognitive access to it. However, data from developmental science suggest thatcognitiveaccess may be only one of several ways to access phenomenology. These data may also have implications for the visual-cognitive phenomena that Block uses to support his case.
Can we equate iconic memory with visual awareness?
Authors: Landman Rogier , Sligte Ilja G.
Published: March 2008

Every time we look around we can see a rich and detailed world surrounding us. Nevertheless, the majority of visual information seems to slip out of our thoughts instantly. Can we still say that this fleeting percept of the entire world was a conscious percept in the first place, as Block proposes?
Phenomenality without access?
Authors: Lycan William G.
Published: March 2008

Block holds that there can be “phenomenology,” “awareness,” and even awareness of the phenomenology, without cognitive access by the subject. The subject may have an experience and be aware of the experience, yet neither notice it nor attend to it. How that is possible is far from clear. I invite Block to explain this very fine distinction.
The measurement problem in consciousness research
Authors: Malach Rafael
Published: March 2008

States of sensory absorption may offer a means to disentangle perception from report. Interestingly, such states lead to an antagonistic relationship between perceptual and cognitive-access networks, suggesting that perceptual awareness does not depend on a read-out by high order cognitive-access mechanisms. Rather, it may emerge internally, through a cooperative coding dynamics, whereby each neuron simultaneously represents and reads-out the perceptual awareness state.
Accessed, accessible, and inaccessible: Where to draw the phenomenal line
Authors: Prinz Jesse
Published: March 2008

One can distinguish among perceptual states that have been accessed by working memory, states that are accessible, and states that are inaccessible. Block compellingly argues that phenomenology outstrips access but wrongly implies that phenomenology outstrips accessibility. There is a subjective difference between Sperling cases and inattentional blindness, which suggests that phenomenology occurs under conditions of accessibility, and not inaccessibility.
Global workspace theory emerges unscathed
Authors: Shanahan Murray , Baars Bernard
Published: March 2008

Our aim in this reply is to defend Global Workspace theory (GWT) from the challenge of Block's article. We argue that Block's article relies on an outdated and imprecise concept of access, and perpetuates a common misunderstanding of GWT that conflates the global workspace with working memory. In the light of the relevant clarifications, Block's conclusion turns out to be unwarranted, and the basic tenets of GWT emerge unscathed.
Expecting phenomenology
Authors: Spener Maja
Published: March 2008

Block's argument against correlationism depends in part on a view about what subjects in certain experiments can be aware of phenomenally. Block's main source of evidence for this view is introspection. I argue that introspection should not be trusted in this respect. This weakens Block's argument and undermines correlationism at the same time.
What if phenomenal consciousness admits of degrees?
Authors: Van Gulick Robert
Published: March 2008

If the phenomenality of consciousness admits of degrees and can be partial and indeterminate, then Block's inference to the best explanation may need to be revaluated both in terms of the supposed data on phenomenal overflow and the range of alternatives against which his view is compared.
Robust tracking control of kinematically redundant robot manipulators subject to multiple self-motion criteria
Authors: Özbay Ufuk , Şahin H. Türker , Zergeroğlu Erkan
Published: March 2008

In this study, we consider a model based robust control scheme for kinematically redundant robot manipulators that also enables the use of self motion of the manipulator to perform multiple sub-tasks (e.g., maintaining manipulability, avoidance of mechanical joint limits, and obstacle avoidance). The controller proposed ensures uniformly ultimately bounded end-effector and sub-task tracking despite the parametric uncertainty associated with the dynamic model. A Lyapunov based approach has been utilized in the controller design and extension to a non minimum set of parameters for orientation representation has been presented to illustrate the flexibility of the approach. Extensive simulation studies performed initially on a 3 link planar robot arm (for the planar case) and on a six degree of freedom (DOF) Puma type robot arm (for the 3D case with quaternion feedback) are presented to demonstrate the capabilities and the performance of the controller. The results were then experimentally tested on an actual Puma 560 robot to illustrate the feasibility of the proposed method.
A novel multiple-heuristic approach for singularity-free motion planning of spatial parallel manipulators
Authors: Abdellatif Houssem , Heimann Bodo
Published: March 2008

The issue of motion planning for closed-loop mechanisms, such as parallel manipulators or robots, is still an open question. This paper proposes a novel approach for motion planning of spatial parallel robots. The framework for the geometric modeling is based on the visibility graph methodology. It is opted for a multiple-heuristics approach, where different influences are integrated in a multiplicative way within the heuristic cost function. Since the issue of singularities is a fundamental one for parallel robots, it is emphasized on the avoidance of such configurations. To include singularity-free planning within the heuristic approach, two heuristic functions are proposed, the inverse local dexterity as well as a novel defined “next-singularity” function, in such a way, well conditioned motions can be provided by a single planning procedure. The success of the method is illustrated by some examples.
On filling families of finite subsets of the Cantor set
Authors: DODOS PANDELIS , KANELLOPOULOS VASSILIS
Published: March 2008

Let ϵ > 0 and$\fff$be a family of finite subsets of the Cantor set$\ccc$. Following D.H. Fremlin, we say that$\fff$is ϵ-filling over$\ccc$if$\fff$is hereditary and for everyF⊆$\ccc$finite there existsG⊆Fsuch thatGϵ\fff$and$|G|\,{\geq}\,\ee |F|$. We show that if$\fff$is ϵ-filling over$\ccc$andC-measurable in$[\ccc]^{<\omega}$, then for everyP⊆$\ccc$perfect there existsQ⊆Pperfect with$[Q]^{<\omega}\,{\subseteq}\,\fff$. A similar result for weaker versions of density is also obtained.
Character amenability of Banach algebras
Authors: MONFARED MEHDI SANGANI
Published: March 2008

We introduce the notion of character amenable Banach algebras. We prove that character amenability for either of the group algebra L1(G) or the Fourier algebra A(G) is equivalent to the amenability of the underlying group G. Character amenability of the measure algebra M(G) is shown to be equivalent to G being a discrete amenable group. We also study functorial properties of character amenability. For a commutative character amenable Banach algebra A, we prove all cohomological groups with coefficients in finite-dimensional Banach A-bimodules, vanish. As a corollary we conclude that all finite-dimensional extensions of commutative character amenable Banach algebras split strongly.
Integrality and the Laurent phenomenon for Somos 4 and Somos 5 sequences
Authors: HONE ANDREW N. W. , SWART CHRISTINE
Published: March 2008

Somos 4 sequences are a family of sequences defined by a fourth-order quadratic recurrence relation with constant coefficients. For particular choices of the coefficients and the four initial data, such recurrences can yield sequences of integers. Fomin and Zelevinsky have used the theory of cluster algebras to prove that these recurrences also provide one of the simplest examples of the Laurent phenomenon: all the terms of a Somos 4 sequence are Laurent polynomials in the initial data. The integrality of certain Somos 4 sequences has previously been understood in terms of the Laurent phenomenon. However, each of the authors of this paper has independently established the precise correspondence between Somos 4 sequences and sequences of points on elliptic curves. This connection is Here we show that these sequences satisfy a stronger condition than the Laurent property, and hence establish a broad set of sufficient conditions for integrality. As a by-product, non-periodic sequences provide infinitely many solutions of an associated quartic Diophantine equation in four variables. The analogous results for Somos 5 sequences are also presented, as well as various examples, including parameter families of Somos 4 integer sequences.
Centre-by-metabelian pro-p groups of type FPm
Authors: KOCHLOUKOVA DESSISLAVA H. , PINTO ALINE G. S.
Published: March 2008

We prove that if G is a centre-by-metabelian pro-p group of type FPm over $\z_p$, so every homomorphic image of G is of type FPm over $\z_p$.
Criteria for components of a function space to be homotopy equivalent
Authors: LUPTON GREGORY , SMITH SAMUEL BRUCE
Published: March 2008

We give a general method that may be effectively applied to the question of whether two components of a function space map(X, Y) have the same homotopy type. We describe certain group-like actions on map(X, Y). Our basic results assert that if maps f, g: X → Y are in the same orbit under such an action, then the components of map(X, Y) that contain f and g have the same homotopy type.
A new basal actinopterygian fish from the Middle Devonian Aztec Siltstone of Antarctica
Authors: Long John A. , Choo Brian , Young Gavin C.
Published: March 2008

A new basal actinopterygian fish,Donnrosenia schaefferigen. et sp. nov., is described from the Middle Devonian (Givetian) Aztec Siltstone of southern Victoria Land, Antarctica.Donnroseniagen. nov. is characterized by the large parietals which are of almost equivalent size to the frontals, very small intertemporals, a small accessory operculum situated dorsally to the prominent anterodorsal process of the suboperculum, a deep dentary with anterior flexure, porous ornamentation on the clavicle, an elongate body form with macromeric squamation, an absence of paired fringing fulcra on the fins, and pectoral lepidotrichia which are unsegmented for much of their length. A phylogenetic analysis based on dermal skeletal features of Devonian actinopterygians indicates thatDonnroseniagen. nov. is the sister taxon toHowqualepisfrom the Middle Devonian of Victoria, Australia, and is embedded within a possible clade containing the actinopterygians from the Gogo Formation, Western Australia. This supports the concept of an endemic radiation of East Gondwanan actinopterygians, and reinforces the already strong biogeographical similarities between the Middle Devonian palaeofaunas of Australia and Antarctica.
Ökopsychologie und Künstlerische Tanztherapie - Tanzend verlorene Wurzeln finden
Authors: Bertolaso Yolanda
Published: March 2008

Zusammenfassung. In der heutigen Zeit haben viele Menschen die Verbindung zu sich selbst und zur Welt insgesamt verloren. Ausgerichtet auf Äußerlichkeiten wie Konsum, Materie, Technik usw. traut er sich häufig nicht mehr, der Stimme seiner Seele zu lauschen. Er erstickt sie, um die Wahrheit nicht hören zu müssen, zu der er vermeintlich ja nicht stehen kann. So gerät er in einen Teufelskreis, in dem er sich immer mehr loslöst vom eigentlichen Menschsein, von seinem Höheren Selbst, von seiner Seele und der Verbundenheit mit der Welt. Den eigenen Rhythmus wieder zu finden, ihn wieder wahrzunehmen und so von neuem befähigt zu sein, seinen Platz in der Welt zu finden, am “Großen Rhythmus“ teilzuhaben, das kann Künstlerische Tanztherapie auf der Basis ökopsychologischer Gedanken bewirken, wenn der Therapeut achtsam mit seiner Professionalität, insbesondere mit seiner Wahrnehmung, umgeht und seinen Medien Natur und Tanz wie auch seinen Klienten mit Respekt und Disziplin gegenübertritt.
Tanzend Gottes Taten feiern
Authors: Markert Vera
Published: March 2008

Zusammenfassung. Unter den vielen liturgischen, meditativen und sakralen Tänzen, wie sie im deutschsprachigen, kirchlichen Raum zu finden sind, ist ein Beispiel klar herauszuheben. Prof. DDr. Aloys Goergen und das theologische Forum haben für die Gottesdienste ihrer experimentierenden Gemeinde Tänze entwickelt, die von herausragender Qualität sind. Dies bezieht sich auf die theologischen, künstlerischen und auch therapeutischen Grundlagen. Hier wurde ein Modell entwickelt, wie Tanz in den Gottesdienst der christlichen Gemeinden als wesentliches Element eingegliedert werden kann und welche gründlichen theoretischen wie praktischen Vorarbeiten dafür nötig sind.
Haut - Wandlung und tanztherapeutische Intervention
Authors: Poeck Kirstin
Published: March 2008

Zusammenfassung. Hochkomplex und einzigartig ist die Haut. Im gesunden Zustand erscheint sie uns als geschmeidiges, glattes und völlig stummes Organ, sie wirkt unveränderlich. Und doch ist die Haut in ihrer Wandelbarkeit nahezu unübertroffen. Im immer wiederkehrenden Rhythmus von ca. 21 Tagen schält und erneuert sie sich ein Leben lang. Bei gesunder Haut geschieht diese Wandlung unbemerkt. Eine kranke Haut jedoch macht bei einer Störung heftig und unerbittlich auf sich aufmerksam und verursacht ein erhebliches Gefühl von Minderwertigkeit und Scham. Die Haut als Organ der Kommunikation soll hier vor dem Hintergrund der weit verbreiteten Mythen unter dem Aspekt der Wandlung vorgestellt werden. Dabei ist sowohl die Komplexität der Hauterkrankungen wie die ethische Verantwortung des Therapeuten zu beachten, wenn Tanz als Mittel zur Selbstwahrnehmung des Klienten und zu dessen Heilung eingesetzt werden soll. Einführend wird der Aufbau der Haut ganz knapp vorgestellt. Im zweiten Kapitel wird auf die Bedeutung der Haut im kulturellen Gedächtnis verwiesen. Der dritte Teil verdeutlicht diese Funktion am Beispiel des bekannten Kunstmärchens “Schneeweißchen und Rosenrot“, der vierte Teil veranschaulicht die aus der Erkrankung resultierenden sozialen Schwierigkeiten am Beispiel einer Neurodermitikerin, der fünfte Teil stellt die besondere Verantwortung des Therapeuten im Umgang mit Hautpatienten heraus und der sechste Teil zeigt Möglichkeiten tanztherapeutischer Intervention bei Hautkranken auf.
Pavane, Courante, Menuett-Selbstrepräsentation am Französischen Hof des 17. Jahrhunderts
Authors: Schmidtmann Iris-Michaela
Published: March 2008

Zusammenfassung. Das 17. Jh. war gekennzeichnet von einer tiefgreifenden Neuordnung gesellschaftlicher Strukturen. Neue wissenschaftliche und philosophische Erkenntnisse erschütterten die an Tradition und Kirche orientierten Denk- und Handlungsgewohnheiten. Den Menschen war die grundlegende Umstellung ihres Weltbildes wohl bewusst und sie bemühten sich, in einer Flut von Chroniken, Enzyklopädien und Apologien, neue Sicherheiten und Richtwerte zu schaffen, an denen sie sich orientieren konnten. Die Verhaltens-Umschulung auf dieses neue Wertesystem erfolgte in der damals üblichen Form, und zwar sowohl im Erlernen als auch im Konsumieren von Schauspielen mit vorbildhaftem Charakter. Zu diesem Zweck wurde eine Rhythmisierung des (Lehr)-Stoffes in Versen als hilfreich erkannt, gleichermaßen die Rhythmisierung der passenden Ausdrucksbewegungen (Affekte) im Tanz. Anhand zeitnah erschienener tanztheoretischer Werke lässt sich die Entwicklung des Tanzes über das 17. Jh. verfolgen. Mit Hilfe der rhythmisch-energetischen Strukturanalyse ist es möglich, die innere Haltung derjenigen, die sich in diesen Tänzen darstellten zu analysieren und damit die Entwicklung ihres Selbstverständnisses im Verlaufe des 17. Jh. aufzuzeigen.
Relationship between the irradiance reflectance and inherent optical properties of seawater
Authors: Hirata Takafumi , Højerslev Niels K.
Published: March 2008

A new expression for relationship between the surface irradiance reflectance and Inherent Optical Properties (IOPs) of homogeneous seawater is presented. Physical parameters largely responsible for the relationship are identified. These are the average cosines of the backward volume scattering function and of the downward radiance. Lorenz‐Mie computations show that the average cosine of the backward volume scattering function is quasi‐constant (0.493 ± 0.135) for most marine waters, even if the backward volume scattering function itself is considerably variable. As a result, a base magnitude of the proportionality between the irradiance reflectance and IOPs are largely set by the average cosine of the backward volume scattering function and eventually determined by the average cosine of the downward radiance that is primarily driven by the sun angle. Independent numerical simulations of radiative transfer support results of the new expression to show that it gives significant improvement in both physical understanding and numerical prediction of the relationship.
On reflectance ratios and aerosol optical depth retrieval in the presence of cumulus clouds
Authors: Kassianov Evgueni I. , Ovtchinnikov Mikhail
Published: March 2008

The traditional conversion of satellite‐observed reflectances to the aerosol optical depth (AOD) is highly conjectural in the vicinity of clouds due to the 3D cloud‐induces enhancement of the apparent reflectance. This study uses 3D Monte Carlo radiative transfer calculations and simulated cloud and aerosol fields to illustrate that for clear pixels the reflectance ratios for two pairs of wavelengths (660, 470 nm and 870, 470 nm) are less sensitive to the 3D cloud effects than the reflectances themselves. We develop a new algorithm for converting these two ratios to three spectral values of AOD and show that it is accurate to within 10% for the majority of clear pixels in our model‐inverse problem. This preliminary study suggests that the proposed approach can be used to significantly improve the accuracy of the AOD retrieved from spectral satellite observations under partly cloudy conditions.