bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Book Reviews
Authors: Rix Rob , Twomey Lesley
Published: February 2007

Literary Adaptations in Spanish Cinema, Sally Faulkner (2004) London: Tamesis, 198 pp., ISBN 1-85566-098-9 (hbk), 45

Negotiating Spain and Catalonia: Competing Narratives of National Identity, Fernando Len Sols (2003) Bristol: Intellect, 172 pp., ISBN
1-84150-077-1 (pbk), 19.95
Explaining Cross‐State Differences in Elderly Suicide Rates and Identifying State‐Level Public Policy Responses that Reduce Rates
Authors: GILES‐SIMS JEAN , LOCKHART CHARLES
Published: January 2007

Elderly Americans commit suicide at higher rates than other age groups. We contend that macro‐ and micro‐social variables contribute distinct aspects to explanations of this tragic loss: the former focus on circumstances that affect overall rates, the latter reveal why certain individuals succumb to suicide. Our analysis focuses on the macro‐social end of a causal sequence including variables at both levels. We describe how elderly suicide rates vary among states, show that macro‐social indicators of social integration contribute to cross‐state variation in elderly suicide rates, and explain how selected aspects of state‐level public policy contribute to reducing elderly suicide rates.
Contribution of Substance P and Neurokinin A to the Differential Injury-Induced Thermal and Mechanical Responsiveness of Lamina I and V Neurons
Authors: Mazarío Javier , Basbaum Allan I.
Published: January 2007

In a previous report, we compared the properties of lamina V neurons of the spinal cord dorsal horn in wild-type mice and in mice with a deletion of the preprotachykinin-A (PPT-A) gene, which encodes substance P (SP) and neurokinin A (NKA). The mutant mice had pronounced deficits in the response to thermal stimulation, both before and after mustard oil induced sensitization. Here, we extended our analysis to the properties of lamina I neurons and also examined responsiveness to mechanical stimulation. Consistent with the properties of lamina V neurons, in the PPT-A mutant mice we found significantly reduced responses of lamina I neurons to noxious thermal stimulation, and mustard oil sensitization of these neurons to heat was lost. In contrast, not only were the responses of lamina I neurons to noxious mechanical stimulation unchanged in the mutant mice, but in neither the wild-type nor the mutant mice could sensitization be induced. However, mustard oil profoundly sensitized lamina V neurons to mechanical stimulation in both wild-type and mutant mice. We conclude that SP and/or NKA are required for the transmission of noxious thermal stimulation by lamina I and V neurons, both before and after tissue injury. The persistence of mechanical sensitization of lamina V neurons in the mutant mice further shows that mustard oil induces mechanical and thermal sensitization through different mechanisms. Finally, we conclude that lamina I sensitization to mechanical stimulation is not required for this form of injury-increased responsiveness of lamina V neurons.
Regulation of Postsynaptic Ca2+Influx in Hippocampal CA1 Pyramidal Neurons via Extracellular Carbonic Anhydrase
Authors: Fedirko Nataliya , Avshalumov Marat , Rice Margaret E. , Chesler Mitchell
Published: February 2007

Synchronous neural activity causes rapid changes of extracellular pH (pHe) in the nervous system. In the CA1 region of the hippocampus, stimulation of the Schaffer collaterals elicits an alkaline pHetransient in stratum radiatum that is limited by extracellular carbonic anhydrase (ECA). When interstitial buffering is diminished by inhibition of ECA, the alkalosis is enhanced and NMDA receptor (NMDAR)-mediated postsynaptic currents can be augmented. Accordingly, the dendritic influx of Ca2+elicited by synaptic excitation may be expected to increase if ECA activity were blocked. We tested this hypothesis in the CA1 stratum radiatum of hippocampal slices from juvenile rats, using extracellular, concentric pH- and Ca2+-selective microelectrodes with response times of a few milliseconds, as well as Fluo-5F imaging of intracellular Ca2+transients. Brief stimulation of the Schaffer collaterals elicited an alkaline pHetransient, a transient decrease in free extracellular Ca2+concentration ([Ca2+]e), and a corresponding transient rise in free intracellular Ca2+concentration ([Ca2+]i). Inhibition of ECA with benzolamide caused a marked amplification and prolonged recovery of the pHeand [Ca2+]eresponses, as well as the dendritic [Ca2+]itransients. The increase in amplitude caused by benzolamide did not occur in the presence of the NMDAR antagonist APV, but the decay of the responses was still prolonged. These results indicate that ECA can shape dendritic Ca2+dynamics governed by NMDARs by virtue of its regulation of concomitant activity-dependent pHeshifts. The data also suggest that Ca2+transients are influenced by additional mechanisms sensitive to shifts in pHe.
Mechanoelectric Transduction of Adult Inner Hair Cells
Authors: Jia Shuping , Dallos Peter , He David Z. Z.
Published: February 2007

Inner hair cells (IHCs) are the true sensory receptors in the cochlea; they transmit auditory information to the brain. IHCs respond to basilar membrane (BM) vibration by producing a transducer current through mechanotransducer (MET) channels located at the tip of their stereocilia when these are deflected. The IHC MET current has not been measured from adult animals. We simultaneously recorded IHC transducer currents and BM motion in a gerbil hemicochlea to examine relationships between these two variables and their variation along the cochlear length. Results show that although maximum transducer currents of IHCs are uniform along the cochlea, their operating range is graded and is narrower in the base. The MET current displays adaptation, which along with response magnitude depends on extracellular calcium concentration. The rate of adaptation is invariant along the cochlear length. We introduce a new method of measuring adaptation using sinusoidal stimuli. There is a phase lead of IHC transducer currents relative to sinusoidal BM displacement, reflecting viscoelastic coupling of their cilia and their adaptation process.
Shifting Paradigms and Mediating Media: Redefining a New Religion as "Rational" in Contemporary Society
Authors: Whelan Christal
Published: January 2007

Japanese new religions sometimes undergo a radical alteration in doctrine or orientation during the course of their development. This article focuses on the politics of representation within the deliberate transformation of a Japanese new religious movement known as GLA or God Light Association from a popular shamanistic neo-Buddhist form of religiosity to an increasingly "rational" and psychological religion. This paradigm shift revolved around the contested practice of past-life glossolalia promoted by the religion's founder as proof of reincarnation. Direct or mediated representation of this phenomenon, serving initially as a locus of power, came to be viewed negatively as expressive of GLA's roots with Japan's folk religious past. Unsuitable for the new secularized target clientele in an age of globalization, representations of this behavior and the man who fostered it were gradually suppressed and history was re-inscribed.
Physician Attitudes Regarding Breakthrough Varicella Disease and a Potential Second Dose of Varicella Vaccine
Authors: Davis Matthew M. , Marin Mona , Cowan Anne E. , Guris Dalya , Clark Sarah J.
Published: February 2007

OBJECTIVE. We assessed physicians’ attitudes about the 1-dose varicella vaccination program and whether physicians think a 2-dose recommendation is needed to reduce the risk of breakthrough disease.

METHODS. We conducted a national mail survey of a random sample of 550 pediatricians and 550 family physicians from April to June 2005. Physicians who provide outpatient primary care to children ≤6 years of age were eligible for analysis.

RESULTS. Surveys were returned by 727 respondents, for a response rate of 69%; 610 physicians were eligible. Most respondents (94%) recommend routine 1-dose varicella vaccination, and 79% have seen breakthrough disease in the past 5 years (95% of pediatricians and 58% of family physicians). The majority (68%) agreed or strongly agreed that the current burden of breakthrough disease is acceptable. Only 38% (46% of pediatricians and 28% of family physicians) agreed or strongly agreed that a second dose of varicella vaccine is needed to address the burden of breakthrough disease, whereas 40% were neutral. However, if the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices were to recommend a second dose of varicella vaccine, then 65% of pediatricians and 39% of family physicians would likely follow the recommendation. Most respondents (78%) would be more willing to recommend a second dose if a combination measles-mumps-rubella-varicella vaccine was available.

CONCLUSIONS. Pediatricians and family physicians support the 1-dose varicella vaccination program. A new Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices recommendation for a second dose of varicella vaccine for children was issued after the survey (in June 2006). Two of 3 pediatricians and 2 of 5 family physicians stated that they would adopt a 2-dose recommendation in practice; rates of adoption may be bolstered with current availability of measles-mumps-rubella-varicella vaccine and harmonization of the varicella vaccination schedule with that of measles-mumps-rubella vaccine.
Effect of Long-term Steroids on Cough Efficiency and Respiratory Muscle Strength in Patients With Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy
Authors: Daftary Ameet S. , Crisanti Mark , Kalra Maninder , Wong Brenda , Amin Raouf
Published: February 2007

OBJECTIVE. The objective of this study was to determine whether long-term steroid therapy is associated with increased peak cough flow in patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy and to determine which pulmonary function test variable is most predictive of peak cough flow.

METHODS. In this case-control study, the medical charts of patients who had Duchenne muscular dystrophy and had pulmonary function tests at our institution in the previous 2 years were examined. Steroid-treated patients were on therapy for at least 1 year. The measured pulmonary function tests included forced vital capacity, maximum expiratory pressure, maximum inspiratory pressure, maximum voluntary ventilation, and peak cough flow. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to determine which pulmonary function test measure was most predictive of peak cough flow and assess the influence of steroid treatment and patient age on peak cough flow.

RESULTS. Ten steroid-treated and 25 untreated patients were analyzed. Peak cough flow and maximum expiratory pressure were significantly higher in the steroid-treated patients. Each of the pulmonary function test variables was significantly associated with peak cough flow. The linear model that had the highest adjusted r2 value included only 2 variables: maximum voluntary ventilation and steroid treatment, demonstrating that steroid-treated patients had peak cough flow values that were 27 L/min higher than the untreated patients. The interaction between maximum voluntary ventilation and steroid was not statistically significant, suggesting that the steroid-associated increase in peak cough flow was approximately constant over the observed range of maximum voluntary ventilation values. The effects of maximum voluntary ventilation and treatment group on peak cough flow were not confounded with the patient age.

CONCLUSIONS. Long-term steroid therapy is associated with improved peak cough flow and respiratory muscle strength in patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Maximum voluntary ventilation may be a useful predictor of lung function in Duchenne muscular dystrophy.
Unwanted and Wanted Exposure to Online Pornography in a National Sample of Youth Internet Users
Authors: Wolak Janis , Mitchell Kimberly , Finkelhor David
Published: February 2007

OBJECTIVE. The goal was to assess the extent of unwanted and wanted exposure to online pornography among youth Internet users and associated risk factors.

METHODS. A telephone survey of a nationally representative sample of 1500 youth Internet users aged 10 to 17 years was conducted between March and June 2005.

RESULTS. Forty-two percent of youth Internet users had been exposed to online pornography in the past year. Of those, 66% reported only unwanted exposure. Multinomial logistic regression analysis was used to compare youth with unwanted exposure only or any wanted exposure with those with no exposure. Unwanted exposure was related to only 1 Internet activity, namely, using file-sharing programs to download images. Filtering and blocking software reduced the risk of unwanted exposure, as did attending an Internet safety presentation by law enforcement personnel. Unwanted exposure rates were higher for teens, youth who reported being harassed or sexually solicited online or interpersonally victimized offline, and youth who scored in the borderline or clinically significant range on the Child Behavior Checklist subscale for depression. Wanted exposure rates were higher for teens, boys, and youth who used file-sharing programs to download images, talked online to unknown persons about sex, used the Internet at friends’ homes, or scored in the borderline or clinically significant range on the Child Behavior Checklist subscale for rule-breaking. Depression also could be a risk factor for some youth. Youth who used filtering and blocking software had lower odds of wanted exposure.

CONCLUSIONS. More research concerning the potential impact of Internet pornography on youth is warranted, given the high rate of exposure, the fact that much exposure is unwanted, and the fact that youth with certain vulnerabilities, such as depression, interpersonal victimization, and delinquent tendencies, have more exposure.
Mg-rich Mg–Ni–Gd ternary bulk metallic glasses with high compressive specific strength and ductility
Authors: Park E.S. , Chang H.J. , Kim D.H.
Published: February 2007

In the present study, we show by tailoring the combinations of the bonding energy among the elements in the liquid state, glass forming ability and compressive mechanical properties of the metallic glasses (MGs) can be improved. The mixing enthalpy values for binary atom pairs in the ternary Mg–Ni–Gd alloys (Mg–Ni: −12 kJ/mol, Mg–Gd: −27 kJ/mol, Ni–Gd: −161 kJ/mol) covers a wide range, although they are all negative. Mg-rich Mg–Ni–Gd (Mg > 70 at.%) alloys can be readily solidified into an amorphous state in a wide composition range up to 4 mm in diameter using the injection casting method; they exhibit the highest level of glass transition temperature Tg among those reported in Mg-based MGs so far. In particular, Mg-rich Mg–Ni–Gd bulk metallic glasses with 10–15 at.% Ni and 10–15 at.% Gd exhibit high strength over 900 MPa and large plastic strain up to ∼2% during compressive loading.
Mechanical performance and fracture behavior of Fe41Co7Cr15Mo14Y2C15B6 bulk metallic glass
Authors: Chen Q.J. , Shen J. , Zhang D.L. , Fan H.B. , Sun J.F.
Published: February 2007

The mechanical properties of a new Fe41Co7Cr15Mo14Y2C15B6 bulk glassy alloy were studied by impact bending, compression, and hardness tests carried out at room temperature. The compressive fracture strength, elastic strain to fracture, Young’s modulus and Vickers hardness were measured to be 3.5 GPa, 1.5%, 265 GPa, and 1253 kg mm−2, respectively. The fracture mode of the glassy alloy under uniaxial compression is different from those of other bulk metallic glasses in that this fracture mode causes the samples to be broken, in an exploding manner, into a large number of micrometer-scale pieces. The fracture mechanisms of this bulk glassy alloy under bending and uniaxial compression are discussed based on the observation of the fracture surfaces. Vickers indentation tests indicate that the structure of the glassy ingot may be inhomogeneous.
Observation of structural anisotropy in metallic glasses induced by mechanical deformation
Authors: Dmowski Wojtek , Egami Takeshi
Published: February 2007

We have investigated atomic structure of a Fe81B13Si4C2 metallic glass after mechanical creep deformation. We determined the structure function and pair density function resolved for azimuthal angle using x-ray scattering and a two-dimensional detector. The results are analyzed by the spherical harmonics expansion, and are compared to the often-used simple analysis of the anisotropic pair density function determined by measuring the structure function along two directions with respect to the stress. We observed uniaxial structural anisotropy in a sample deformed during creep experiment. The observed macroscopic shear strain is explained in terms of local bond anisotropy induced by deformation at elevated temperature. The bond anisotropy is a “memory” of this deformation after load was removed. We showed that use of sine-Fourier transformation to anisotropic glass results in systematic errors in the atomic pair distribution function.
Hydrogen-induced amorphization and embrittlement resistance in Ti-based in situ composite with bcc-phase in an amorphous matrix
Authors: Jayalakshmi S. , Ahn J.P. , Kim K.B. , Fleury E.
Published: February 2007

We report the hydrogenation characteristics and mechanical properties of Ti50Zr25Cu25 in situ composite ribbons, composed of β-Ti crystalline phase dispersed in an amorphous matrix. Upon cathodic charging at room temperature, high hydrogen absorption up to ∼60 at.% (H/M = ∼1.2) is obtained. At such a high concentration, hydrogen-induced amorphization occurs. Mechanical tests conducted on the composite with varying hydrogen concentrations indicate that the Ti50Zr25Cu25 alloy is significantly resistant to hydrogen embrittlement when compared to conventional amorphous alloys. A possible mechanism that would contribute toward hydrogen-induced amorphization and hydrogen embrittlement is discussed.
Scratch test induced shear banding in high power laser remelted metallic glass layers
Authors: Matthews D.T.A. , Ocelík V. , de Hosson J.Th.M.
Published: February 2007

Laser remelted surface layers of a Cu-based metallic glass forming alloy have been produced with fully amorphous depths up to 350 μm for single track widths of around 1.3 mm and have been checked by transmission of synchrotron radiation. They have been subjected to indentation hardness and scratch testing, and the development of shear bands in both situations has been addressed. During the cross-sectional hardness indentation tests, Vickers values of over 735 HV2 have been found through the depth of the treated layer, and the scratch testing has revealed extremely low friction coefficient values (<0.02 at 10 N in single-pass and 0.02 at 18 N multi-pass regimes against a diamond stylus). The shear band formation has been related to both scratch test speed (strain rate) and load (contact stress) by methods such as atomic force microscopy measurements and subsequent surface roughness characterization by a height–height correlation function.
Anticholinergic drugs for overactive bladder: a review of the literature and practical guide
Authors: Munjuluri Nalini , Wong William , Yoong Wai
Published: February 2007

Key content

Overactive bladder syndrome is a highly prevalent symptom complex that can be extremely distressing to women.

It is associated with co‐morbidities and reduced quality of life.

Treatment involves behavioural therapy, physiotherapy and pharmacotherapy.

There is robust and convincing evidence that anticholinergic agents are effective drug treatments.

Possible adverse effects include disruption of cognitive function, dry mouth, constipation and blurred vision.

Learning objectives

To know about the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of anticholinergic medications.

To be able to prescribe them appropriately.

To know about the differences in effectiveness between the newer anticholinergic drugs.

Ethical issues

How much information should women be given about possible adverse effects?

Please cite this article as: Munjuluri N, Wong W, Yoong W. Anticholinergic drugs for overactive bladder: a review of the literature and practical guide. The Obstetrician & Gynaecologist 2007;9:9–14.
Blueprinting the RCOG examinations
Authors: Hodges Paul
Published: February 2007

Key content

Blueprinting is a good tool to ensure that the MRCOG examinations cover the right areas of knowledge and skills required for the specialty in an appropriate way.

Examination weaknesses can be identified to ensure that these are covered by different assessment tools.

The addition of considering domains as well as subjects increases the utility of blueprinting.

Making the outline of the blueprint open to candidates will greatly assist their preparation for examinations.

Analysis of the domains covered by the new Core Curriculum and by the whole MRCOG show a close match, indicating that the MRCOG is very fit for its purpose and corresponds well with the content of the new curriculum.

Learning objectives

To understand the concept of blueprinting.

To be aware of alternative approaches to blueprinting.

To be aware of how blueprinting has affected the RCOG Membership examinations.

Ethical issues

Thorough blueprinting of the coverage of summative assessments contributes to setting standards to protect women's health.

Please cite this article as: Hodges P. Blueprinting the RCOG examinations. The Obstetrician & Gynaecologist 2007;9:53–57.
@ TOG
Authors: Barnfield Sonia , Edey Katharine , Jenkins Julian
Published: February 2007

In this issue we review a broad spectrum of statistical websites. A basic understanding of statistics is fundamental, both for comprehending original research and for undertaking research. The use of further statistics is a key requirement for evidence‐based medicine. Although they may initially seem daunting, after a little perseverance they can be fascinating. The internet can help with explaining statistical terms and with performing statistical calculations.
Accuracy of Uncorrected versus Corrected QT Interval for Prediction of Torsade de Pointes Associated with Intravenous Haloperidol
Authors: Tisdale James E. , Kovacs Richard , Mi Deming , McCabe George P. , Cariera Beth L. , Sharma Nagaraja , Rosman Howard
Published: January 2007

Study Objective. To determine if the uncorrected QT interval (QTu) more accurately predicts drug‐induced torsade de pointes than QT intervals corrected using the Bazett's (QTB), Fridericia (QTFrid), or Framingham (QTFram) methods.

Design. Retrospective analysis of a previously reported case‐control study of risk factors for haloperidol‐induced torsade de pointes.

Setting. Large tertiary care teaching hospital.

Patients. Forty‐six critically ill patients who received intravenous haloperidol for sedation; seven developed torsade de pointes.

Measurements and Main Results. The QT intervals were measured manually by one investigator from electrocardiograms performed before and during haloperidol therapy. Logistic regression analysis for prediction of torsade de pointes was performed, incorporating QTu, QTB, QTFrid, QTFram, and RR intervals measured during treatment. Receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curves were constructed. Primary outcome measures were proportion of explained variation (maximum‐rescaled R2); area under the ROC curves for QTu, QTB, QTFrid, QTFram, and RR interval; and sensitivity and specificity for prediction of haloperidol‐induced torsade de pointes. The QTu was associated with the highest R2 compared with QTFram, QTFrid, QTB, and RR interval (0.77, 0.73, 0.68, 0.53, and 0.30, respectively). No significant differences in areas under the ROC curves were found between any of the QT‐interval methods. Areas under the ROC curves for QTu and QTFram trended toward being greater than that associated with the RR interval. All QT‐interval methods were highly sensitive (100% for each), whereas the RR interval was less sensitive (86%); QTu and QTFram were most specific (82%) compared with the QTFrid (72%), QTB (64%), and RR interval (36%).

Conclusion. Compared with QTB and QTFrid, the QTu and QTFram best predicted haloperidol‐induced torsade de pointes in critically ill patients; the QTFram offered no advantage over the QTu.
Pharmacokinetics of Intranasal and Intratracheal Pentoxifylline in Rabbits
Authors: Adcock Kim G. , Kyle Patrick B. , Deaton Jennifer S. , Olivier Jake H. , Hogan Shirley M.
Published: January 2007

Study Objective. To evaluate the disposition of pentoxifylline and its metabolite, lisofylline, in New Zealand rabbits after two alternative routes of administration, intranasal and intratracheal.

Design. Pharmacokinetics study in an animal model.

Setting. University‐affiliated animal care facility.

Subjects. Twenty New Zealand white rabbits divided into four groups of five rabbits each: group 1 did not receive study drug (control group), and groups 2, 3, and 4 evaluated intravenous, intranasal, and intratracheal routes of administration, respectively.

Intervention. Each rabbit in groups 2–4 received pentoxifylline as a single 20‐mg/kg dose by their respective route of administration.

Measurements and Main Results. Blood samples were collected over a 24‐hour period and were analyzed by using high‐performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry. The pharmacokinetic parameters evaluated were area under the concentration‐time curve from time zero extrapolated to infinity (AUC0–∞), maximum concentration (Cmax), time to maximum concentration (Tmax), elimination rate constant (kel), and half‐life (t1/2). Median pentoxifylline pharmacokinetic parameters after intravenous administration were AUC0–∞ 5420 ng•hr/ml, Cmax 16,727 ng/ml, Tmax 5 minutes, kel 0.036 minute−1, and t1/2 19 minutes. Median pharmacokinetic parameters after intranasal and intratracheal administration, respectively, were AUC0–∞ 4224 and 6824 ng•hr/ml, Cmax 11,181 and 16,758 ng/ml, Tmax 5 and 5 minutes, kel 0.028 and 0.032 minute−1, and t1/2 25 and 22 minutes. The metabolite, lisofylline, displayed a similar disposition after the three different routes of administration.

Conclusion. The pharmacokinetic profiles after intranasal and intratracheal administration of pentoxifylline appear similar to those after intravenous administration. These data provide support for development of pentoxifylline intranasal and intratracheal dosage formulations that would be suitable for use in premature neonates.
“Walking the Walk” With Teacher Education Candidates: Strategies for Promoting Active Engagement With Assigned Readings
Authors: L'Allier Susan K. , Elish‐Piper Laurie
Published: February 2007

Teacher educators can use active engagement strategies to help teacher candidates interact meaningfully with assigned readings for literacy methods courses. This approach to active engagement with required readings helps teacher candidates learn the content, concepts, and processes from text, and enables them to experience as learners the techniques, strategies, and processes advocated for use in K‐12 classrooms. The authors believe that helping teacher candidates understand, value, and apply research‐based practices in their own teaching is facilitated by modeling, application, and reflection on using such practices with their own reading and learning.

The strategies described are

Alpha boxes

Making connections

Double‐entry journals

Text coding

Teachers as readers

Also provided are a rationale for each strategy, a description of how to implement the strategy with teacher candidates, an example, and application ideas for the strategy in K‐12 classrooms.
The Effective Teacher of Reading: Considering the “What” and “How” of Instruction
Authors: Blair Timothy R. , Rupley William H. , Nichols William Dee
Published: February 2007

What teaching strategies must teachers of reading be able to perform and how are these strategies applied effectively in teaching children to read? This article attempts to answer these two important questions.

One key element of a successful reading program focuses on the teacher. A brief review of the teacher effectiveness literature, including the International Reading Association's position statement on excellent reading teachers, is followed by a description of common instructional features associated with the effective teaching of reading:

Assessing students' strengths and weaknesses

Structuring reading activities around an explicit instructional model

Providing students with opportunities to learn and apply skills and strategies in authentic reading tasks

Ensuring that students attend to the learning tasks

Believing in one's teaching abilities and expecting students to be successful
Q2ChIP, a Quick and Quantitative Chromatin Immunoprecipitation Assay, Unravels Epigenetic Dynamics of Developmentally Regulated Genes in Human Carcinoma Cells
Authors: Dahl John Arne , Collas Philippe
Published: February 2007

Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) is a key technique for studying protein-DNA interactions and mapping epigenetic histone modifications on DNA. Current ChIP protocols require extensive sample handling and large cell numbers. We developed a quick and quantitative (Q2)ChIP assay suitable for histone and transcription factor immunoprecipitation from chromatin amounts equivalent to as few as 100 cells. DNA-protein cross-linking in suspension in presence of butyrate, elimination of background chromatin through a tube shift after washes, and a combination of cross-link reversal, protein digestion, increased antibody-bead to chromatin ratio, and DNA elution into a single step considerably improve ChIP efficiency and shorten the procedure. We used Q2ChIP to monitor changes in histone H3 modifications on the 5′ regulatory regions of the developmentally regulated genes OCT4, NANOG, LMNA, and PAX6 in the context of retinoic-acid-mediated human embryonal carcinoma cell differentiation. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis of precipitated DNA unravels biphasic heterochromatin assembly on OCT4 and NANOG, involving H3 lysine (K)9 and K27 methylation followed by H3K9 deacetylation and additional H3K27 trimethylation. Di- and trimethylation of H3K4 remain relatively unaltered. In contrast, PAX6 displays histone modifications characteristic of repressed genes with potential for activation in undifferentiated cells. PAX6 undergoes H3K9 acetylation and enhanced H3K4 trimethylation upon transcriptional activation. Q2ChIP of the transcription factor Oct4 demonstrates its dissociation from the NANOG promoter upon differentiation. This study is, to our knowledge, the first to reveal histone modification changes on human OCT4 and NANOG regulatory sequences. The results demonstrate ordered chromatin rearrangement on developmentally regulated promoters upon differentiation.

Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest is found at the end of this article.
Host Vascular Niche Contributes to Myocardial Repair Induced by Intracoronary Transplantation of Bone Marrow CD34+ Progenitor Cells in Infarcted Swine Heart
Authors: Zhang Shaoheng , Ge Junbo , Zhao Lan , Qian Juying , Huang Zheyong , Shen Li , Sun Aijun , Wang Keqiang , Zou Yunzeng
Published: February 2007

The effects of bone marrow cell transplantation (BMT) on myocardial infarct might be affected by host intrinsic circumferences. A best vascular niche was shown in the infarcted hearts with collateral vessels at 2 weeks after myocardial infarction (MI). BMT caused the greatest cardiac repairs after MI in the swine with better collateral vessels, which might be relative to richer collateral vessels, greater vessel densities, and higher expressions of basif fibroblast growth factor and stromal cell–derived factor-1 in the hearts before BMT. Our data suggest that existence of intrinsic collateral vessels contributes greatly to the beneficial effects of intracoronary BMT on cardiac repairs after MI.

Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest is found at the end of this article.
Whole Genome Analysis of Human Neural Stem Cells Derived from Embryonic Stem Cells and Stem and Progenitor Cells Isolated from Fetal Tissue
Authors: Shin Soojung , Sun Yu , Liu Ying , Khaner Hanita , Svant Smita , Cai Jingli , Xu Qin Xiu , Davidson Bruce P. , Stice Steven L. , Smith Alan K. , Goldman Steven A. , Reubinoff Benjamin E. , Zhan Ming , Rao Mahendra S. , Chesnut Jonathan D.
Published: February 2007

Multipotent neural stem cells (NSC) have been derived from human embryonic stem cells (hESC) as well as isolated from fetal tissues. However, there have been few exclusive markers of NSC identified to date, and the differences between NSC from various sources are poorly understood. Although cells isolated from these two sources share many important characteristics, it is not clear how closely they are related in terms of gene expression. Here, we compare the gene expression profiles of 11 lines of NSC derived from hESC (ES_NSC), four lines of NSC isolated from fetus (F_NSC), and two lines of restricted progenitors in order to characterize these cell populations and identify differences between NSC derived from these two sources. We showed that ES_NSC were clustered together with high transcriptional similarities but were distinguished from F_NSC, oligodendrocyte precursor cells, and astrocyte precursor cells. There were 17 genes expressed in both ES_NSC and F_NSC whose expression was not identified in restricted neural progenitors. Furthermore, the major differences between ES_NSC and F_NSC were mostly observed in genes related to the key neural differentiation pathways. Here, we show that comparison of global gene expression profiles of ES_NSC, F_NSC, and restricted neural progenitor cells makes it possible to identify some of the common characteristics of NSC and differences between similar stem cell populations derived from hESCs or isolated from fetal tissue.

Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest is found at the end of this article.
Cost-effectiveness of using geotextiles in flexible pavements
Authors: Yang S.-H. , Al-Qadi I. L.
Published: January 2007

Using geotextiles in secondary roads to stabilize and reinforce weak subgrades has been a well-accepted practice over the past 30 years. However, from an economics point of view, a complete life-cycle cost analysis, which includes not only costs to agencies but also costs to users of the road, is urgently needed to assess the benefits of using geotextiles in secondary road flexible pavements. This paper presents a cost analysis process that includes costs for the initial construction, each rehabilitation, work-zone queue delays, moving delays, accidents, and fuel consumption. Two of the most practical design methods, developed by Al-Qadi and Perkins, were adopted to quantify the cost–benefits provided by geotextiles when incorporated in secondary road flexible pavements. Although both methods showed significant traffic benefit ratio (TBR) at very low California Bearing Ratio (CBR), the benefits suggested by Perkins diminished as the CBR became greater than 2%. This study also shows that, when user costs are considered, a greater TBR value may not result in the most effective life-cycle cost. Hence, for an optimum secondary road flexible pavement design with geotextile incorporated in the system, a life-cycle cost analysis that includes user cost must be performed.
Assessment of Pain Associated With the Surgical Placement of Dental Implants
Authors: Al‐Khabbaz Areej K. , Griffin Terrence J. , Al‐Shammari Khalaf F.
Published: February 2007

Background: Despite increasing popularity and established predictability, limited information is available on the pain experience associated with the surgical placement of dental implants. The aim of this study was to assess patient‐reported pain during and after implant insertion and to evaluate factors associated with this pain.

Methods: This was a prospective, two‐center study of adult patients scheduled for the surgical placement of one or more implants. Surgery was performed by an experienced periodontist or periodontal graduate students. Mean pain scores were evaluated with the use of a 0 to 10 scale during surgery and 24 hours and 1, 6, and 12 weeks after surgery and compared between the two centers. The association of pain scores at each time‐point with patient‐, operator‐, and surgery‐related factors was examined through univariate and multiple logistic regression analyses.

Results: Five hundred ten implants were placed in 234 patients during the study. Mean pain scores were highest at 24 hours after surgery (2.01 ± 0.11) and decreased gradually thereafter. Pain intensity was mild for the majority of patients at all time‐points, and only a few patients had moderate or severe pain. Regression analysis revealed that factors significantly associated with pain after 24 hours included operator experience (odds ratio [OR] = 24.86), pain during surgery (OR = 2.81), and female gender (OR = 2.51). After 1 week, pain levels were associated significantly with having pain after 24 hours (OR = 38.69) and having a surgical template used during surgery (OR = 1.11).

Conclusions: Pain experienced by patients following the surgical placement of dental implants was generally mild and gradually decreased with time. Operator experience, female gender, surgical difficulty, and pain at earlier time‐points were associated significantly with patient reports of pain.
Comparative Study of Ultrasonic Instrumentation for the Non‐Surgical Treatment of Interproximal and Non‐Interproximal Furcation Involvements
Authors: Del Peloso Ribeiro Érica , Bittencourt Sandro , Nociti Francisco H. , Sallum Enilson A. , Sallum Antônio W. , Casati Márcio Zaffalon
Published: February 2007

Background: The aim of this clinical trial was to compare the outcome of non‐surgical treatment of interproximal and non‐interproximal Class II furcation involvements.

Methods: Thirty‐eight patients presenting at least one Class II furcation involvement that bled on probing with a probing depth (PD) ≥5 mm were recruited. Furcation involvements were grouped as either buccal and lingual furcation involvements (BLFI) or interproximal furcation involvements (IFI). The following clinical outcomes were evaluated: visible plaque index, bleeding on probing (BOP), position of the gingival margin, relative attachment level (RAL), PD, and relative horizontal attachment level (RHAL). N‐benzoyl‐l‐arginine‐p‐nitroanilide (BAPNA) testing was used to analyze trypsin‐like activity in dental biofilm. All parameters were evaluated at baseline and 1, 3, and 6 months after non‐surgical subgingival instrumentation.

Results: Six months after treatment, both groups had similar means of RAL and RHAL gain (P >0.05). These variables were 1.22 and 1.07 mm in the IFI group and 1.38 and 1.20 mm in the BLFI group, respectively. The PD reduction was significantly greater in the BLFI group than in the IFI group (2.59 and 2.11 mm, respectively; P <0.05). The BLFI group presented fewer sites with PD ≥5 mm than the IFI group at all post‐treatment periods. At 6 months, the BAPNA test showed that only the BLFI group had values significantly different from baseline. This means that the BLFI group had significantly lower BAPNA values compared to the IFI group at 6 months.

Conclusion: Buccal and lingual Class II furcation involvements respond better to non‐surgical therapy compared to interproximal Class II furcation involvements.
Feasibility of a constructed wetland and wastewater stabilisation pond system as a sewage reclamation system for agricultural reuse in a decentralised rural area
Authors: Ham J.H. , Yoon C.G. , Jeon J.H. , Kim H.C.
Published: January 2007

The performance of a constructed wetland (CW) and wastewater stabilisation pond (WSP) system for sewage reclamation and paddy rice irrigation in a decentralised rural area was examined using a feasibility study. The CW was satisfactory for sewage treatment, with good removal efficiency even in the winter period, but the effluent concentration was relatively high in the winter period owing to the high influent concentration. The CW effluent was further treated in a WSP and the WSP effluent was considered safe for crop irrigation with respect to sewage-borne pathogens. Reclaimed water irrigation did not adversely affect the yield of rice; on the contrary, it resulted in an approximately 50% greater yield than in controls. The chemical characteristics of the soil did not change significantly during the experimental period of irrigation with reclaimed water. In the winter, CW effluent could be stored and treated in a WSP until the spring; the water could then be discharged or reused for supplemental irrigation during the typical Korean spring drought. Overall, sewage treatment and agronomic reuse using a CW-WSP system could be a practical integrated sewage management measure for protecting receiving water bodies and overcoming water shortages in decentralised rural areas.
Degradation of endocrine disrupting chemicals in aqueous solution by interaction of photocatalytic oxidation and ferrate (VI) oxidation
Authors: Li C. , Li X.Z.
Published: January 2007

In this study, the degradation of bisphenol A in aqueous suspension by interaction of photocatalytic oxidation and ferrate(VI) oxidation was investigated under different conditions. The results indicate that the formation of Fe(V) and Fe(IV) is in the photocatalytic reduction of Fe(VI) by electron (e−cb) on the surface of TiO2. The oxidation efficiency of the photocatalytic oxidation in the presence of Fe(VI) was much greater than that without. In addition, the decomposition of Fe(VI) under different conditions was also investigated. The results indicate that the Fe(VI) reduction was accelerated by photocatalytic reaction and the adsorption capacity of Fe(VI) on TiO2 surface decreased as pH increased. The characteristics of solid potassium ferrate prepared were investigated by X-ray diffraction. It was found that the potassium ferrate solid has a tetrahedral structure with a space group of D2h (Pnma) and a=7.705 Å, b=5.863 Å, and c=10.36 Å.
Vertical profile of algal distribution during aeration prior to intake tower for safe drinking water
Authors: Kim H.K. , Kim J.M. , Lee Y.J. , Kim B.I. , Lee B.C. , Chang N.I.
Published: January 2007

Blue-green algae or cyanobacteria comprise a diverse group of organisms, all of which generate potent natural toxins, as well as characteristic odours. In particular, blue-green algae, such as Microcystis and Anabaena, are often detected abundantly in surface water used as a drinking water resource. In order to confirm our ability to provide safe drinking water even during a water bloom, we have conducted an investigation into the vertical distribution of algae during aeration prior to entry into the intake tower at a dam site. Our analysis of the vertical algal distribution during aeration indicated that aeration occurring at the intake tower exerts a significant influence on the safety of the drinking water. It was determined that the discontinuation of aeration and an increase in the depth at which water intake is conducted, constitutes a viable strategy for the maintenance of toxin- and odour-free drinking water, particularly during water bloom events.
The Development of an Instrument for Assessing Online Teaching Effectiveness
Authors: Bangert Arthur W.
Published: January 2007

Traditional student evaluations of teaching do not adequately assess the essential constructivist-based practices that have been recommended for effective online instruction. There is a need for student evaluation of teaching instruments that are specifically designed to provide online instructors with valid feedback about the effectiveness of their online teaching practices. This study was undertaken to develop and validate a student evaluation of online teaching effectiveness instrument based on Chickering and Gamson's (1987) Seven Principles of Effective Teaching. Eight hundred and seven students enrolled in WebCT courses at a mid-sized university in the western United States completed the Student Evaluation of Online Effectiveness (SEOTE) for this study. Results from an exploratory factor of analysis of a randomly selected sub-sample of SEOTE responses of online students yielded four interpretable factors: Student–Faculty Interaction, Active Learning, Time on Task, and Cooperation Among Students. Aconfirmatory factor analysis of the second subsample found that the hypothesized four-factor model fit the data well.
Giorgione'sTempest, StudioloCulture, and the Renaissance Lucretius*
Authors: Campbell Stephen J.
Published: February 2007

The invention of Giorgione's much-interpreted painting known asThe Tempestcan be explained with reference to theDe rerum naturaof Lucretius. Lucretius provides the essential connection between the main elements of the painting: a male 'wanderer,' a lightning bolt, broken columns, a naked, nursing female, and a landscape rendered according to momentary, fleeting appearances. The invention of the painting also responds to the way Lucretius was read around 1500, to the specific interests of the poet's Renaissance readers and imitators, and to forms of self-cultivation associated with the ownership of astudiolo.
Montaigne on Property, Public Service, and Political Servitude
Authors: Jordan Constance
Published: February 2007

Montaigne's claim to be free from obligations to individual persons or the state in general is based on a corresponding assertion of self ownership. He claims a property in himself which includes the right to determine the nature of his employment. His stated preference is to limit any counterclaims upon his propriety, to invest his time and abilities exclusively in himself. Despite this preference, however, he describes his own career in public service and its terms. He agrees that the property he has in himself can be leased to the use of his prince, but he insists that this use not offend his judgment or preempt his will. He distinguishes his service from political servitude, which entails a forfeiting of the powers of judgment and will. His language describing how and for whom he works borrows terms from the market denoting ownership, possession, debt, obligation, and benefit.
Government, Business, and the Making of the Internet
Authors: Abbate Janet
Published: February 2007

In 1969, when few commercial communications networks existed, a U.S. Defense Department research agency created an experimental system that would eventually become the Internet. Driven by both research and military considerations, the designers of the Internet created a complex, robust, and flexible system that differed in significant ways from contemporary commercial communications networks. In the 1970s and 1980s, computer manufacturers (mainly based in the United States) and telecommunications carriers (mainly operating outside the United States) vied to offer commercial network products and services, but no single company or technology was able to dominate the market, in part because computer users preferred the type of nonproprietary technical standards used in the Internet. In the 1980s, the National Science Foundation took over operation of the Internet, and in the 1990s the NSF turned over the network to privatesector operators. While the Internet has rapidly increased in scale under commercial ownership, the technology also continues to reflect the systems research origins.