bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CARNITINE ESTERS PREVENT OXIDATIVE STRESS DAMAGE AND ENERGY DEPLETION FOLLOWING TRANSIENT FOREBRAIN ISCHAEMIA IN THE RAT HIPPOCAMPUS
Authors: Al‐Majed Abdulhakeem A , Sayed‐Ahmed Mohamed M , Al‐Omar Fadhal A , Al‐Yahya Abdulaziz A , Aleisa Abdulaziz M , Al‐Shabanah Othman A
Published: September 2010

The present study investigated whether propionyl‐l‐carnitine (PLC) has neuroprotective effects, similar to those reported for acetyl‐l‐carnitine (AC), against transient forebrain ischaemia‐induced neuronal damage and biochemical derangement in the rat hippocampal CA1 region.

In total, 105 adult male Wistar albino rats were divided into seven groups of 15 animals each. The first three groups were injected i.p. with normal saline, AC (300 mg/kg) or PLC (300 mg/kg) for 7 successive days. The next three groups were injected i.p. with the same doses of normal saline, AC or PLC immediately after the induction of 10 min forebrain ischaemia and i.p. injections were continued for 7 successive days. Rats in the seventh group were subjected to sham‐operated ischaemia and injected with normal saline for 7 successive days.

Seven days after treatment, animals were killed and their brains isolated for histopathological examination and biochemical studies.

Forebrain ischaemia resulted in a significant decrease in the number of intact neurons (77%), ATP concentration (51%) and glutathione content (32%), whereas there was a significant increase in the production of thiobarbituric acid‐reactive substances (TBARS; 71%) and total nitrate/nitrite (NOx; 260%) in hippocampal tissues.

Administration of either AC or PLC attenuated forebrain ischaemia‐induced neuronal damage, manifested by a greater number of intact neurons, ATP and glutathione, as well as a decrease in TBARS and NOxin hippocampal tissues.

Results from the present study suggest, for the first time, that PLC attenuates forebrain ischaemia‐induced neuronal injury, oxidative stress and energy depletion in the hippocampal CA1 region. Propionyl‐l‐carnitine has neuroprotective effects similar to AC and could have a potential use in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.

The results of the present study will open up new perspectives for the use of PLC in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases associated with, or secondary to, myocardial ischaemia–reperfusion injury and chronic circulatory failure.
ARE GAP JUNCTIONS TRULY INVOLVED IN INHIBITORY NEUROMUSCULAR INTERACTION IN MOUSE PROXIMAL COLON?
Authors: Sibaev Andrei , Yüce Birol , Schirra Joerg , Göke Burkhard , Allescher Hans D , Storr Martin
Published: September 2010

Gap junctions exist between circular muscle cells of the colon and between interstitial cells of Cajal (ICC) in the myenteric plexus of the gastrointestinal tract. They also probably couple intramuscular ICC with smooth muscle cells. Recent functional evidence for this was found in dye‐coupling and myoelectrical experiments.

In the present study, we tested the hypothesis of gap junctions putatively being involved in neuromuscular interaction in mouse colon by using different classes of gap junction blockers.

Electrical field stimulation of the myenteric plexus elicited tetrodotoxin‐sensitive and hexamethonium‐independent fast and slow inhibitory junction potentials (fIJP and sIJP, respectively) in circular smooth muscle cells, as evaluated by intracellular recording techniques in impaled smooth muscle cells. Heptanol produced a time‐dependent hyperpolarization of the membrane potential (MP) and abolished fIJP and sIJP. Octanol had no effect on the MP and abolished fIJP and sIJP. Carbenoxolone produced a time‐dependent depolarization of the MP without any effect on fIJP or sIJP. The connexin 43 mimetic gap junction blocker GAP‐27 had no effect on MP, fIJP or sIJP.

Based on the presently available gap junction blockers we found no evidence that gap junctions are involved in neuromuscular transmission in mouse colon, as suggested by morphological studies.
β‐ADRENOCEPTOR‐MEDIATED INHIBITION OF MEDIATOR RELEASE FROM HUMAN PERIPHERAL BLOOD‐DERIVED MAST CELLS
Authors: Wang XS , Lau HYA
Published: September 2010

Mast cells cultured from human peripheral blood have been used as a cell model for functional studies of human mast cells, particularly human lung mast cells. However, the β‐adrenoceptor subtype expressed by these cultured cells has not been identified. The aim of the present study was to characterize pharmacologically the β‐adrenoceptors involved in the suppression of IgE‐mediated release of mediators, including histamine, prostaglandin (PG) D2and leukotriene (LT) C4from cultured mast cells.

Mast cells were cultured from mast cell progenitors isolated from peripheral blood in the presence of 200 ng/mL stem cell factor and 50 ng/mL interleukin‐6. Mast cells were sensitized with human myeloma IgE, treated with β‐adrenoceptor agonists or antagonist and then challenged with anti‐human IgE. The release of histamine, PGD2and LTC4from mast cells was determined.

Both isoprenaline and salbutamol inhibited anti‐IgE‐induced release of histamine, PGD2and LTC4from cultured mast cells in a dose‐dependent manner. Isoprenaline was a more potent inhibitor than salbutamol. The pD2values for the inhibition of the release of histamine, PGD2and LTC4were 7.37 ± 0.12, 8.38 ± 0.23, 8.85 ± 0.23, respectively, for isoprenaline and 6.96 ± 0.12, 7.65 ± 0.36, 7.91 ± 0.64, respectively, for salbutamol. The selective β3‐adrenoceptor agonist BRL‐37344 failed to affect anti‐IgE‐induced histamine release from cultured mast cells.

The selective β2‐adrenoceptor antagonist ICI 118 551 (10−8mol/L) strongly reversed the concentration‐dependent suppression of histamine release by isoprenaline and salbutamol; however, the selective β1‐adrenoceptor antagonist atenolol (10−6 mol/L) did not have any effect.

These results indicate that both isoprenaline and salbutamol act at β2‐adrenoceptors to suppress IgE‐mediated mediator release from cultured human mast cells.
Germination phenology of some Great Basin native annual forb species
Authors: FORBIS TARA A.
Published: September 2010

Great Basin native plant communities are being replaced by the annual invasive cheatgrass Bromus tectorum. Cheatgrass exhibits a germination syndrome that is characteristic of facultative winter annuals. Although perennials dominate these communities, native annuals are present at many sites. Germination timing is often an important predictor of competitive interactions, and might determine whether the use of annual species in restoration efforts will be successful. I used a laboratory experiment to determine whether a suite of native annuals exhibit winter or spring annual germination syndromes. Seeds of Amsinckia menziesii var. intermedia, Amsinckia tesselata, Blepharipappus scaber, Descurainia pinnata, Eriastrum sparsiflorum, Lappula occidentalis, Mentzelia veatchiana and Plagiobothrys tenellus were tested for dormancy, and for responsiveness to light, cold stratification and dry after‐ripening. Species that would be expected to be most similar to cheatgrass are those that have no requirement for cold stratification and are therefore likely to germinate under autumn or winter conditions. The species that clearly met this criterion in this laboratory study were A. menziesii var. intermedia, A. tesselata, D. pinnata and L. occidentalis. In contrast, B. scaber, E. sparsiflorum, M. veatchiana and P. tenellus had their highest germination after cold stratification and would be expected to be spring germinators. Blepharipappus scaber was not coaxed out of dormancy to a great degree by any of the treatments I applied and may exhibit cue‐non‐responsive dormancy. Field seed burial experiments, as well as experiments examining the competitive ability of these annuals versus cheatgrass will further inform us about their potential for success in restoration seedings.
Prepubertal testicular tumors: A 20‐year experience with 40 cases
Authors: Hisamatsu Eiji , Takagi Shizuko , Nakagawa Yoshikiyo , Sugita Yoshifumi , Yoshino Kaoru , Ueoka Katsuhiko , Tanikaze Saburo
Published: September 2010

Testicular tumors are rare in children. In addition, prepubertal testicular tumors (PTT) are fundamentally different from their postpubertal counterparts. We reviewed our 20‐year experience with 40 cases to suggest an algorithm for the appropriate surgical approach for patients with PTT. All tumors ultrasonographically suspected of being benign were confirmed to be benign postoperatively. There was a significant difference between median preoperative α‐fetoprotein (AFP) levels of infants with yolk sac tumor and teratoma. The majority of our cases were benign, with the most common histopathological subtype being teratoma, as recently reported. Testis‐sparing surgery was carried out in five patients with teratoma and three patients with epidermoid cyst. Other than one patient with teratoma, none of the patients developed recurrence or testicular atrophy after testis‐sparing surgery. When testis‐sparing surgery is considered, our algorithm based on ultrasonographic findings and preoperative AFP levels might be helpful.
In vivo confocal microscopy of pre‐Descemet’s membrane corneal dystrophy
Authors: Ye Yu‐Feng , Yao Yu‐Feng , Zhou Ping , Pan Fei
Published: September 2010

Abstract

Pre‐Descemet’s membrane corneal dystrophy is clinically characterized by the presence of numerous tiny pleomorphic opacities located in the deep stroma immediately anterior to Descemet’s membrane. A 35‐year‐old man, clinically diagnosed with pre‐Descemet’s corneal dystrophy, was examined by in vivo slit scan confocal microscopy. The pleomorphic structures containing dense hyperreflective inclusions in the posterior stroma were revealed in vivo. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, it is consistent with the result of the previous histological study, but different from other reports using in vivo confocal microscopy.
Periocular squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Limawararut Vanessa , Leibovitch Igal , Sullivan Tim , Selva Dinesh
Published: September 2010

Abstract

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the second most common eyelid malignancy and its incidence is increasing. Because of its variable clinical presentation, SCC may be difficult for even the experienced clinician to diagnose. Hence, all suspicious lesions warrant biopsy. As SCC behaviour may range widely in aggression, management should be individualized based on tumour (e.g. size, location, grade, histological subtype, previous recurrence, perineural invasion) and patient factors (e.g. age, health). Treatment of eyelid SCC should include margin control whenever possible for the highest cure rate in this high‐risk area. Immediate histological monitoring of surgical margins with frozen sections or Mohs’ micrographic surgery also allows for smaller margins of excision in an area where tissue conservation is important. Other special considerations in the periocular area include maintaining a high level of suspicion for perineural invasion as this may be associated with a poorer prognosis.
Objective monitoring of papilloedema using confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscopy
Authors: Chen Jern Yee , Taranath Deepa A , Chappell Angela J , Brophy Brian P , Craig Jamie E
Published: September 2010

Abstract

Idiopathic intracranial hypertension can cause severe optic nerve damage with irreversible visual loss. Heidelberg retina tomography is a sensitive and reproducible tool that can be used in the monitoring of optic disc swelling due to IIH. We demonstrate that the three‐dimensional images produced are easy to interpret, indicate progression or resolution and improve the timing of intervention in multidisciplinary settings by facilitating communication between specialists.
Relationship between second‐generation frequency doubling technology and standard automated perimetry in patients with glaucoma
Authors: Zarkovic Andrea , Mora Justin , McKelvie James , Gamble Greg
Published: September 2010

Abstract

Purpose:  The aim of the study was to establish the correlation between visual filed loss as shown by second‐generation Frequency Doubling Technology (Humphrey Matrix) and Standard Automated Perimetry (Humphrey Field Analyser) in patients with glaucoma. Also, compared were the test duration and reliability.

Methods:  Forty right eyes from glaucoma patients from a private ophthalmology practice were included in this prospective study. All participants had tests within an 8‐month period. Pattern deviation plots and mean deviation were compared to establish the correlation between the two perimetry tests. Overall correlation and correlation between hemifields, quadrants and individual test locations were assessed.

Results:  Humphrey Field Analyser tests were slightly more reliable (37/40 vs. 34/40 for Matrix)) but overall of longer duration. There was good correlation (0.69) between mean deviations. Superior hemifields and superonasal quadrants had the highest correlation (0.88 [95% CI 0.79, 0.94]). Correlation between individual points was independent of distance from the macula.

Conclusion:  Generally, the Matrix and Humphrey Field Analyser perimetry correlate well; however, each machine utilizes a different method of analysing data and thus the direct comparison should be made with caution.
Pterygium in Tibetans: a population‐based study in China
Authors: Lu Peng , Chen Xiaoming , Kang Ying , Ke Lang , Wei Xiaoyan , Zhang Wenfang
Published: September 2010

Abstract

Purpose:  To describe the prevalence and to identify associated risk factors for pterygium in a Tibetan population at high altitude in Zeku County, China.

Methods:  A prospective population‐based survey was conducted from October to December 2006. A stratified, clustered, randomized sampling procedure was used to select 2632 Tibetan people aged 40 years and older. Pterygium was diagnosed and graded clinically as grade 1 (transparent), 2 (intermediate) and 3 (opaque). Risks factors associated with pterygium were evaluated with logistic regression models.

Results:  From a total of 2632 eligible subjects, 2229 (84.69%) were examined. There were 323 people with pterygium, equivalent to an overall prevalence of 14.49% (95% confidence interval [CI] 13.03–15.95). Pterygium was independently associated with increasing age for persons aged 70–79 years, compared with those aged 40–49 years (odds ratio [OR] 2.0; 95% CI 1.4–2.8), female gender (OR 1.6; 95% CI 1.2–2.0), dry eye symptoms (OR 1.3; 95% CI 1.0–1.7), seldom use of sunglasses/crystal spectacles (OR 4.6; 95% CI 1.9–11.3) or hats (OR 3.6: 95% CI 2.4–5.4), lower education level (<3 years) (OR 1.6; 95% CI 1.1–2.4) and low socioeconomic status (OR 1.9; 95% CI 1.5–2.4).

Conclusions:  The prevalence of pterygium in a Tibetan population at high altitude is significantly high, particularly in certain at‐risk groups. The primary causative factors are related to ocular sun exposure, which are easily preventable. Public health schemes to address this serious health issue are urgently needed.
Rapid improvement of radiation‐induced neovascular glaucoma and exudative retinal detachment after a single intravitreal ranibizumab injection
Authors: Dunavoelgyi Roman , Zehetmayer Martin , Simader Christian , Schmidt‐Erfurth Ursula
Published: September 2010

Abstract

Neovascular glaucoma is a serious complication arising from irradiation of uveal melanoma. Treatment options include panretinal photocoagulation, peripheral retina cryotherapy, photodynamic therapy with verteporfin, triamcinolone injections and surgical removal of the dying tumour mass. Nevertheless, enucleation of the affected eye often is inevitable. The authors describe a case report of a radiation‐induced neovascular glaucoma and exudative retinal detachment caused by malignant melanoma of the uvea that was treated with intravitreal ranibizumab.
Comparison of central corneal thickness as measured by non‐contact specular microscopy and ultrasound pachymetry before and post LASIK
Authors: Zhao Ming‐hui , Zou Jun , Wang Wen‐qing , Li Jun
Published: September 2010

Abstract

Purpose:  To compare central corneal thickness (CCT) measurements made by ultrasound pachymetry and non‐contact specular microscopy in eyes before and post laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK).

Methods:  Forty eyes of 20 consecutive refractive surgery candidates were included in this study. The CCT in both eyes was measured before and 3 months after LASIK with a non‐contact specular microscope and a ultrasound pachymeter.

Result:  Both before and after LASIK, the difference of the mean CCT between non‐contact specular microscopy and ultrasound pachymetry was statistically significant (P < 0.001 before surgery, and P = 0.02 after surgery). The difference between them was −14.41 μm and −3.69 μm, respectively. In both situations, non‐contact specular microscopy and ultrasound pachymetry measurements were highly correlated (r = 0.959, before surgery, and r = 0.979 after LASIK). Bland–Altman analysis showed that either before or post LASIK, the 95% limits of agreement have a span of approximately 30 μm. Preoperatively, the mean standard deviation of repeated measurements was 4.26 μm by ultrasound pachymetry, and 4.02 μm by non‐contact specular microscopy, whereas it was 3.83 μm by ultrasound pachymetry, and 3.89 μm by non‐contact specular microscopy, postoperatively. No statistically significant differences were found between the mean standard deviations by these two devices in both situations (P = 0.561 before surgery, and P = 0.849 after LASIK).

Conclusions:  Both before and after LASIK, non‐contact specular microscopy is not in complete agreement with ultrasound pachymetry in measuring CCT. Both devices provided comparable repeatability of measurements.
Bilateral occlusive retinal vasculitis in Kikuchi–Fujimoto disease
Authors: Zou Wenjun , Wen Feng
Published: September 2010

Abstract

A 22‐year‐old Chinese woman noted a sudden decrease in vision in both eyes 3 days after being histologically proven Kikuchi–Fujimoto disease. Fundus fluorescein angiography of both eyes showed multiple focal areas of retinal arteriolae occlusion with adjacent areas of capillary non‐perfusion and leakage from the dilated retinal vessels in the posterior pole and midperiphery. During the follow‐up period of 7 months, the patient was treated with intravenous methotrexate and a low maintenance dose of prednisone. Occlusive vasculitis resulted in proliferative retinopathy in both eyes and there were no other systemic abnormal findings. Autoimmune event was considered as the possible pathogenesis of occlusive retinal vasculitis.
Spherical aberration, visual performance and pseudoaccommodation of eyes implanted with different aspheric intraocular lens
Authors: Shentu Xingchao , Tang Xiajing , Yao Ke
Published: September 2010

Abstract

Purpose:  To compare spherical aberration, visual performance and pseudoaccommodation in pseudophakic eyes implanted with aspheric intraocular lenses (IOLs) of Tecnis Z9001 with negative spherical aberration (AMO Inc.), aspheric aberration‐free IOLs of Akreos AO (Bausch & Lomb Inc.) and spherical IOLs of KS‐1 (Cannon Staar Inc.).

Methods:  A total of 196 patients presenting for cataract surgery were randomly assigned to receive one of three types of IOLs in one eye. Spherical aberration, best‐corrected far visual acuity (BCFVA), distance corrected near visual acuity (DCNVA), contrast sensitivity, glare sensitivity and pseudoaccommodation were measured and compared 3 months postoperatively.

Results:  At 3 months postoperatively, the mean spherical aberration Z(4,0) for 5 mm pupil size in eyes with Tecnis Z9001 IOLs, Akreos AO IOLs, and KS‐1 IOLs were 0.022 ± 0.071 µm, 0.141 ± 0.070 µm and 0.210 ± 0.108 µm, respectively (P < 0.001), and significant difference was also found in two aspheric IOLs (P < 0.001). Compared with spherical KS‐1 IOLs, Tecnis Z9001 IOLs significantly improved the contrast sensitivity at 4.0°, 2.5° visual angle and glare sensitivity at 4.0°, 2.5°, 2.0°, 1.6° visual angle, Akreos AO IOLs significantly improved contrast sensitivity at 2.5° and glare sensitivity at 4.0°, 2.5°, 2.0°, but no difference statistically significance were found between two aspheric IOLs at any visual angle. In addition, there was no significant difference among three IOLs regarding BCFVA, DCNVA and pseudoaccommodation.

Conclusions:  All the studied IOLs can provide good visual acuity. Compared with spherical IOLs, both aspheric IOLs can significantly decrease spherical aberration and improve visual performance without the reduction of pseudoaccommodation amplitude.
MIDDLEMEN AND THE ADVERSE SELECTION PROBLEM
Authors: Vesala Timo
Published: September 2010

We demonstrate that the coexistence of an uncoordinated search market and a middleman market may alleviate adverse selection in the trade of goods of different quality. Inability to conduct trade penalizes sellers of low‐quality goods disproportionately, encouraging them to trade via middlemen. A semi‐separating equilibrium exists when a sufficient number of sellers of low‐quality goods choose the middleman market to allow high‐quality goods to be successfully traded in the search market. The result may explain why a search market can survive alongside a coordinated market, a phenomenon characteristic, for example, of markets for used cars, housing and labour.
JOINT VENTURES, POLLUTION AND ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY
Authors: Roy Chowdhury Indrani
Published: September 2010

We examine the impact of emission taxes on the pollution level in a duopoly framework with endogenous market structure. We demonstrate that an increase in emission taxes could trigger a regime switch from joint ventures to Cournot competition, causing the pollution level to increase. Such a phenomenon is likely to happen when the concerned industry is reasonably profitable, and the synergistic gain between joint venture partners is not too strong. Moreover, emission taxes can implement the first best outcome if and only if the industry is not too polluting. In case it is, the second best level of taxes may or may not equal the optimal tax under either joint venture or Cournot competition.
Strategizing corporate social responsibility: evidence from an Italian medium‐sized, family‐owned company
Authors: Perrini Francesco , Minoja Mario
Published: September 2010

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) is becoming a mainstream issue as both researchers and managers are realizing its importance, but knowledge gaps persist. In particular, the processes underlying the adoption of responsible managerial practices and the effects associated with them are still at the centre of intense debate. Not surprisingly, managers expect formalized procedures that might influence corporate managerial processes and especially corporate strategies. Given the growing emphasis on the integration of CSR into corporate strategy, the purpose of this qualitative study is to explore the antecedents of this process and the dynamics underlying it. We focus on a medium‐sized, family‐owned Italian company, SABAF SpA. We find that: the beliefs and value systems of entrepreneurs play a fundamental role in shaping a sustainable corporate strategy; the importance of the relationship between social performance and financial performance depends to some extent on the kind of competitive strategy that a company has selected; and people need to be aware of it – that is, CSR strategies must be explicit and codified into specific managerial procedures.
The Role of Semantic Context and Memory in the Acquisition of Novel Nouns
Authors: Goodman Judith C. , McDonough Laraine , Brown Natasha B.
Published: September 2010

Three studies assessed the ability of 2‐year‐olds to use semantic context to infer the meanings of novel nouns and to retain those meanings a day later. In the first experiment, 24 2‐year‐olds heard novel nouns in sentences that contained semantically constraining verbs (e.g., “Mommy feeds the ferret”). They chose from a set of four novel object pictures to indicate the referent. Children learned a majority of the novel words. However, they occasionally failed to choose the correct object even when they understood the verb. Experiment 2 examined whether this was due to an inability to identify some of the pictures of novel objects. Experiment 3 tested 24 2‐year‐olds' memory for the newly learned nouns following a 24 hr delay and found significant retention. Results are discussed in terms of learning mechanisms that facilitate vocabulary acquisition in young children.
Correlates of Attachment at School Age: Maternal Reported Stress, Mother‐Child Interaction, and Behavior Problems
Authors: Moss Ellen , Rousseau Denise , Parent Sophie , St‐Laurent Diane , Saintonge Julie
Published: September 2010

The contribution of attachment, maternal reported stress, and mother‐child interaction to the prediction of teacher‐reported behavior problems was examined for a French‐Canadian sample of 121 school‐age children. Attachment classifications were assigned on the basis of reunion behavior with mother when the children were between 5 and 7 years of age. Maternal reported stress and mother‐child interaction patterns were assessed concurrent to the attachment measure, whereas behavior problems were evaluated both at ages 5 to 7 and 7 to 9 years. Security of attachment significantly predicted the likelihood of school‐age behavior problems: Controlling/other children were most at risk for both externalizing and internalizing problems across both age periods. Younger ambivalent children presented clinical cut‐off levels of externalizing problems, and older avoidant boys had higher internalizing scores. Patterns of maternal‐reported stress and mother‐child interaction differed across attachment groups and contributed to prediction of school‐age behavior problems, partially mediating the relation between attachment and adaptation. Results support the importance of attachment in explaining school‐age adaptation and validity of attachment coding for children of this age.
Development of Temporal‐Reconstructive Abilities
Authors: Friedman William J. , Lyon Thomas D.
Published: September 2010

In a study of the ability to reconstruct the times of past events, 86 children from 4 to 13 years recalled the times of 2 in‐class demonstrations that had occurred 3 months earlier and judged the times of hypothetical events. Many of the abilities needed to reconstruct the times of events were present by 6 years, including the capacity to interpret many temporally relevant cues, but there were substantial changes well into middle childhood in the availability of temporally useful episodic information. Children were poor at remembering the events' proximity or order with respect to a major holiday, but the order of the 2 target events was well recalled by 6 years.
Becoming a Social Partner With Peers: Cooperation and Social Understanding in One‐ and Two‐Year‐Olds
Authors: Brownell Celia A. , Ramani Geetha B. , Zerwas Stephanie
Published: September 2010

One‐ and two‐year‐old peer dyads were presented with a simple cooperative task. Age differences were found in amount of coordinated activity, monitoring the peer's activity and location in relation to the goal, and attempting to achieve the goal when the peer was (or was not) available as a partner. One‐year‐olds' coordinated actions appeared more coincidental than cooperative whereas older children appeared to be more actively cooperating toward a shared goal. Differences in coordinated activity with peers were associated with differences in attention sharing with an adult and with language about self and other. The ability to cooperate with peers, becoming a true social partner, develops over the 2nd and 3rd years of life in concert with growing social understanding.
IPRA—ENHANCING THE SENSING ABILITIES OF AMBIENT INTELLIGENCE
Authors: Schultheis Holger
Published: September 2010

The ability of ambient intelligence to serve a person could be considerably enhanced, if intelligent devices would take into account the person's current cognitive and affective state. One primary source for state information are physiological measures. However, obtaining state information requires concertedly employing a multitude of different techniques. To facilitate the use of physiological signals as sources of state information and thereby allow improving ambient intelligence, we developed Ipra, an integrated pattern recognition approach which (a) employs all techniques necessary to appropriately analyze physiological data, (b) is broadly applicable, and (c) is easy to use even for nonexperts. This approach together with results of its first application are presented in this contribution.
A TRAINING SIMULATION SYSTEM WITH REALISTIC AUTONOMOUS SHIP CONTROL
Authors: Nicolescu Monica , Leigh Ryan , Olenderski Adam , Louis Sushil , Dascalu Sergiu , Miles Chris , Quiroz Juan , Aleson Ryan
Published: September 2010

In this article we present a computational approach to developing effective training systems for virtual simulation environments. In particular, we focus on a Naval simulation system, used for training of conning officers. The currently existing training solutions require multiple expert personnel to control each vessel in a training scenario, or are cumbersome to use by a single instructor. The inability of current technology to provide an automated mechanism for competitive realistic boat behaviors thus compromises the goal of flexible, anytime, anywhere training. In this article we propose an approach that reduces the time and effort required for training of conning officers, by integrating novel approaches to autonomous control within a simulation environment. Our solution is to developintelligent, autonomous controllersthat drive the behavior of each boat. To increase the system's efficiency we provide a mechanism for creating such controllers, from the demonstration of a navigation expert, using a simple programming interface. In addition, our approach deals with two significant and related challenges: therealism of behaviorexhibited by the automated boats and theirreal‐time response to changesin the environment. In this article, we describe the control architecture we developed that enables the real‐time response of boats and the repertoire of realistic behaviors we designed for this application. We also present our approach for facilitating the automatic authoring of training scenarios and we demonstrate the capabilities of our system with experimental results.
DESIGN OF AN ITERATIVE MULTI‐ITEM DOUBLE‐AUCTION MECHANISM
Authors: Roh Dong H. , Yang Hyun S.
Published: September 2010

There have been many multi‐item auction mechanisms. As it is not allowed for both sellers and buyers to submit bids and offers in nearly all existing multi‐item auction mechanisms, the impartial profit distribution for both sellers and buyers cannot be realized in those mechanisms. Although it is possible for both sellers and buyers to submit bids and offers in a combinatorial exchange, the impartial profit distribution for all individual participants cannot be realized due to its pricing mechanism that focuses only on enforcing budget balance. This paper proposes an iterative multi‐item unit‐demand and unit‐supply double‐auction mechanism with a new winner determination and pricing mechanism for distributing profit impartially from the viewpoints of individual participants regardless of whether they are buyers or sellers. It also analyzes the theoretical features of the proposed auction mechanism, including those related to its strategic behavior and efficiency.
DEMONSTRATION‐BASED BEHAVIOR PROGRAMMING FOR EMBODIED VIRTUAL AGENTS
Authors: Dinerstein Jonathan , Egbert Parris K. , Ventura Dan , Goodrich Michael
Published: September 2010

We present a novel technique for behavioral animation through data‐driven behavior synthesis. This technique has two key features: it provides natural character behavior and has a programming‐by‐demonstration interface. Thus we can quickly create compelling autonomous virtual agents that exhibit stylized behavior. First, the human user demonstrates behavior for the character by specifying its high‐level actions (e.g., with a joystick) during an interactive session. Each demonstration is recorded as a sequence of discrete actions. Later, the character synthesizes novel behavior by concatenating segments of action sequences. The choice of segments is guided by simulations that predict fitness. Thus our technique operates such as a cognitive model, providing a character with deliberative decision making. The actions are abstract and can be mapped to any pertinent motions, even procedurally synthesized motions. Thus our technique complements character animation algorithms. We empirically show that our O(logn) technique is scalable, robust when provided with sufficient data, produces effective behavior for a number of problem domains, and is faster than traditional planning. Also, the interface is intuitive enough that character behavior can be created by nontechnical users.
A Macroscopic Single‐Lane Roundabout Model to Account for Insertion Delays and O–D Patterns
Authors: Chevallier Estelle , Leclercq Ludovic
Published: September 2010

Abstract:  Available traffic simulation tools for roundabouts are exclusively based on a microscopic framework. This article provides a parsimonious macroscopic model able to replicate the main traffic features occurring at this kind of intersection. Especially, it accounts for time‐limited disruptions on the approach legs due to the insertion process, even when the entry demand does not exceed the merging capacity. It also computes circulating flows that are consistent with vehicle paths induced by the O–D traffic composition. The two‐step validation process using data collected at two different roundabouts is convincing. Moreover, the model appears to be computer‐efficient and has few easy‐to‐calibrate parameters. As a result, it can be easily linked to a traffic simulation package to model a whole urban network.
Routine, Reflexivity, and Realism
Authors: Archer Margaret S.
Published: September 2010

Many scholars continue to accord routine action a central role in social theory and defend the continuing relevance of Bourdieu's habitus. Simultaneously, most recognize the importance of reflexivity. In this article, I consider three versions of the effort to render these concepts compatible, which I term “empirical combination,” “hybridization,” and “ontological and theoretical reconciliation.” None of the efforts is ultimately successful in analytical terms. Moreover, I argue on empirical grounds that the relevance of habitus began to decrease toward the end of the 20th century, given major changes in the structures of the advanced capitalist democracies. In these circumstances, habitual forms prove incapable of providing guidelines for people's lives and, thus, make reflexivity imperative. I conclude by arguing that even the reproduction of natal background is a reflexive activity today and that the mode most favorable to producing it—what I call “communicative reflexivity”—is becoming harder to sustain.
Works Councils and Separations: Voice, Monopoly, and Insurance Effects
Authors: HIRSCH BORIS , SCHANK THORSTEN , SCHNABEL CLAUS
Published: September 2010

Using a large linked employer–employee data set for Germany, we find that the existence of a works council is associated with a lower separation rate to employment, in particular for workers with low tenure. While works council monopoly effects show up in all specifications, clear voice effects are only visible for low tenured workers. Works councils also reduce separations to nonemployment, and this impact is more pronounced for men. Insurance effects only show up for workers with tenure of more than 2 years. Our results indicate that works councils to some extent represent the interests of a specific clientele.
Are primary health care staff aware of the role of community learning disability teams in relation to health promotion and health facilitation?
Authors: Hames Annette , Carlson Tracy
Published: September 2010

Research has identified that while people with learning disabilities often have greater health needs than the general population, they access primary care at the same rate or lower. Valuing People recommends that members of learning disability teams should take on a key role in supporting people with learning disabilities to access mainstream health services. They should be working with primary health care teams in a health facilitation and health promotion role. This study aimed to examine whether primary health care team members knew what services were provided by their local learning disability team, and in particular whether they used specialist learning disability workers to identify health care needs.
ABO frequencies in Mongols*
Authors: KAPLAN S. , LI C.C , WALD N. , Borges W.
Published: September 2010

The ABO frequencies in 290 mongols at the Polk State School and Hospital have been analysed and compared with three control groups in the Pittsburgh area. No evidence of an increase in AB or a decrease in O group among the mongols has been found. The conclusion is that the ABO locus is probably not located in the chromosome for which the mongols are trisomic.

We are indebted to Drs William Kuhns, Arthur Mirsky, and Ian Higgins for allowing us to use their ABO data in the Pittsburgh area as controls.
Origin of triploidy in spontaneous abortuses
Authors: LAURITSEN J. G. , BOLUND L. , FRIEDRICH U. , THERKELSEN A. J.
Published: September 2010

Fourteen triploid spontaneous abortuses were studied cytogenetically by sequential Q and C banding and the marker chromosomes were compared with those of the parents. The abortuses comprised all triploid cases in a series of 288 consecutive abortuses of the first 16 weeks of pregnancy occurring in one hospital. In 12 of the triploids the origin of the extra haploid set was conclusively determined, revealing six cases of dispermy, five failures in the first maternal and one failure in the first paternal meiotic division.
The expression of creatine kinase isozymes in human cultured cells
Authors: POVEY SUSAN , INWOOD MARY , TANYAR ALISON , BOBROW MARTIN
Published: September 2010

The BB isozyme of creatine kinase is consistently present in cultured human fibroblasts and shows great variation in activity in long‐term lymphoid lines. One mouse line tested, PG 19, had strong activity, but all other rodent lines tested did not express CK BB. Human and mouse CK BB can be expressed independently of each other in human‐rodent somatic cell hybrids.
AUTOIMMUNE (IDIOPATHIC) THROMBOCYTOPENIC PURPURA IN PREGNANCY AND THE NEWBORN
Authors: Jones R. W. , Asher M. Innes , Rutherford Cynthia J. , Munro Heather M.
Published: September 2010

The effects of autoimmune (or idiopathic) thrombocytopenic purpura (ATP) on 51 pregnancies in 29 women is presented. There is no convincing evidence that the clinical course of ATP is influenced by pregnancy. There was no increased incidence of obstetric complications. No problems were encountered following spontaneous vaginal delivery or low forceps delivery. There were no perinatal deaths. Twenty newborn infants were studied in detail and significant thrombocytopenia was present in half of them. The severity of thrombocytopenia in the newborn correlated closely with the severity of maternal disease; those women in clinical remission following splenectomy but with presumed high levels of antiplatelet antibodies were those most likely to be delivered of affected newborn infants. The cord blood platelet count was the most reliable guide to the potential severity of the neonatal thrombocytopenia. Platelet counts were lowest between the second and fourth days of neonatal life. The management of the severely affected infant is discussed.
A combination of misoprostol and estradiol for preoperative cervical ripening in postmenopausal women: a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Oppegaard KS , Lieng M , Berg A , Istre O , Qvigstad E , Nesheim B‐I
Published: September 2010

Objective  To compare the impact of 1000 μg of self‐administered vaginal misoprostol versus self‐administered vaginal placebo on preoperative cervical ripening after 2 weeks of pretreatment with estradiol vaginal tablets in postmenopausal women prior to day‐care operative hysteroscopy.

Design  Randomised, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled sequential trial.

Setting  Norwegian university teaching hospital.

Population  Sixty‐seven postmenopausal women referred for day‐care operative hysteroscopy.

Methods  The women were randomised to receive either 1000 μg of self‐administered vaginal misoprostol or self‐administered vaginal placebo on the evening before day‐care operative hysteroscopy. All women had administered a 25‐μg vaginal estradiol tablet daily for 14 days prior to the operation.

Main outcome measures  Primary outcome: preoperative cervical dilatation at hysteroscopy. Secondary outcomes: difference in dilatation at recruitment and before hysteroscopy, number of women who achieved a preoperative cervical dilatation of 5 mm or more, acceptability, complications and adverse effects.

Results  The mean cervical dilatation was 5.7 mm (SD, 1.6 mm) in the misoprostol group and 4.7 mm (SD, 1.5 mm) in the placebo group, the mean difference in cervical dilatation being 1.0 mm (95% CI, 0.2–1.7 mm). Self‐administered vaginal misoprostol of 1000 μg at home on the evening before day‐care hysteroscopy is safe and highly acceptable, although a small proportion of women experienced lower abdominal pain.

Conclusions  One thousand micrograms of self‐administered vaginal misoprostol, 12 hours prior to day‐care hysteroscopy, after 14 days of pretreatment with vaginal estradiol, has a significant cervical ripening effect compared with placebo in postmenopausal women.
Back to Basics: The evidence for reducing the pain of administration of local anesthesia and cosmetic injectables
Authors: Babamiri Kajal , Nassab Reza
Published: September 2010

Administration of injections, whether local anesthetic or cosmetic injectable, can result in significant distress and discomfort to patients. This review explores factors that can alleviate anxiety and pain associated with injections including cosmetic injectables. We highlight that many techniques used to reduce pain have only been reported based on anecdotal evidence and small series. The techniques that have been reported to reduce pain, by randomized controlled trials, include pretreatment with topical local anesthetic agents and combined cosmetic injectables with local anesthetics.
Development of a questionnaire assessing health‐related quality‐of‐life in dogs and cats with cancer
Authors: Lynch S. , Savary‐Bataille K. , Leeuw B. , Argyle D. J.
Published: September 2010

Health‐related quality‐of‐life (HRQoL) has been studied extensively in human medicine. There is currently no standard HRQoL evaluation for veterinary oncology patients. The aim of this study was to assess the practicality, usefulness and robustness, from a pet owner and clinician perspective, of a questionnaire for the assessment of HRQoL in canine and feline cancer patients. A HRQoL assessment entitled ‘Cancer Treatment Form’ and two questionnaires entitled ‘Owner Minitest' and ‘Clinician Minitest' were designed. The first and second were completed by owners of patients presenting to a veterinary oncology referral service and the third by attending clinicians. The ‘Cancer Treatment Form’ was well received by owners and clinicians and provided a valuable assessment of HRQoL with 98% (82/84) of owners reporting an accurate reflection of their pet's quality‐of‐life. Following this, minor improvements to the form could be suggested prior to regular use in evaluation of clinical oncology patients.
Learning from the Saints: Ninth‐Century Hagiography and the Carolingian Renaissance
Authors: Bosworth Amy K.
Published: September 2010

In the early Middle Ages (c.500–1000) in Western Europe, the saints played a vital role in the lives of all Christians. Everyone regardless of status or gender believed in their power to cure the suffering, protect the faithful, and castigate the wicked. Hagiography, the stories of the holy dead, celebrated the saints and helped maintain and validate their cults. For historians, these texts provide insight not only into the practice of Christianity, but also into the social and political landscape of the time. During the ninth century, many authors of hagiography also participated in and benefitted from a royal program of reform centered on education and uniformity. Yet, the stories of the saints reflect the continuation and predominance of regional concerns and the limitations of the message of uniformity in the so‐called Carolingian Renaissance.
Recent Trends in the Study of Medieval Canonizations
Authors: Katajala‐Peltomaa Sari
Published: September 2010

Canonization processes, inquiries into a putative saint's life, merits and miracles, are rich sources for the study of lived experiences as well as religious practices of lay Christians. Studies of this field have multiplied during the 1990s and 2000s; the focus had shifted from overall categorizations and comparison of various processes to a narrower but nuanced perspective; qualitative close reading of the depositions is an important method of analysis. Currently, social history approach, everyday life, family and gender, as well as local interaction and political motivation behind the practicalities of the proceedings are pre‐eminent themes in the study of medieval canonizations.
Using a Clinical Pathway to Support Normal Birth: Impact on Practitioner Roles and Working Practices
Authors: Hunter Billie , Segrott Jeremy
Published: September 2010

Abstract:  Background:  Widespread concerns are being voiced in the Western world about rising rates of childbirth intervention. In Wales, United Kingdom, a Clinical Pathway for Normal Labour (Normal Labour Pathway) was devised to support normal childbirth and reduce unnecessary interventions. This study investigated the implementation of the pathway, from the perspective of midwives, doctors, and midwifery managers.

Methods:  An ethnographic approach was used to observe use of the Normal Labour Pathway in real life settings and evaluate its implementation. Data were collected by means of semiparticipant observation, focus groups, and interviews. Participants (n = 56) included senior practitioners involved in creating the pathway (n = 4), midwives (n = 41), managers (n = 5), and doctors (n = 6). Data were analyzed thematically.

Results:  Key themes related to the effect of the Normal Labour Pathway on Welsh maternity care, and midwives’ and doctors’ experiences. Midwives’ views focused on the pathway as a decision‐making protocol and record of care. Recently qualified midwives were more likely to view the pathway positively than those with more experience. Doctors were critical of the pathway, experiencing it as exclusionary. Midwives and doctors considered that the Normal Labour Pathway had increased interprofessional tensions. There was no evidence that it had increased the normal birth rate.

Conclusions:  The Normal Labour Pathway is a complex intervention with complex outcomes. It has had intended and unintended consequences, for maternity care in general and for the roles and relationships of maternity care practitioners. The study raises questions about the appropriateness of clinical pathways and other standardized decision‐making tools for the complexity of childbirth. (BIRTH 37:3 September 2010)