bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Origin and Regenerative Potential of Vertebrate Mechanoreceptor-Associated Stem Cells
Authors: Widera Darius , Hauser Stefan , Kaltschmidt Christian , Kaltschmidt Barbara
Published: October 2012

Meissner corpuscles and Merkel cell neurite complexes are highly specialized mechanoreceptors present in the hairy and glabrous skin, as well as in different types of mucosa. Several reports suggest that after injury, such as after nerve crush, freeze injury, or dissection of the nerve, they are able to regenerate, particularly including reinnervation and repopulation of the mechanoreceptors by Schwann cells. However, little is known about mammalian cells responsible for these regenerative processes. Here we review cellular origin of this plasticity in the light of newly described adult neural crest-derived stem cell populations. We also discuss further potential multipotent stem cell populations with the ability to regenerate disrupted innervation and to functionally recover the mechanoreceptors. These capabilities are discussed as in context to cellularly reprogrammed Schwann cells and tissue resident adult mesenchymal stem cells.
Management of Diabetes and Its Complications with Banaba (Lagerstroemia speciosaL.) and Corosolic Acid
Authors: Miura Toshihiro , Takagi Satoshi , Ishida Torao
Published: October 2012

Banaba (Lagerstroemia speciosaL.) extracts have been used for many years in folk medicine to treat diabetes, with the first published research study being reported in 1940. This paper summarizes the current literature regarding Banaba and its constituents. The hypoglycemic effects of Banaba have been attributed to both corosolic acid as well as ellagitannins. Studies have been conducted in various animal models, human subjects, andin vitrosystems using water soluble Banaba leaf extracts, corosolic acid, and ellagitannins. Corosolic acid has been reported to decrease blood sugar levels within 60 min in human subjects. Corosolic acid also exhibits antihyperlipidemic and antioxidant activities. The beneficial effects of Banaba and corosolic acid with respect to various aspects of glucose and lipid metabolism appear to involve multiple mechanisms, including enhanced cellular uptake of glucose, impaired hydrolysis of sucrose and starches, decreased gluconeogenesis, and the regulation of lipid metabolism. These effects may be mediated by PPAR and other signal transduction factors. Banaba extract, corosolic acid, and other constituents may be beneficial in addressing the symptoms associated with metabolic syndrome, as well as offering other health benefits.
A Hybrid Genetic Programming Method in Optimization and Forecasting: A Case Study of the Broadband Penetration in OECD Countries
Authors: Salpasaranis Konstantinos , Stylianakis Vasilios
Published: October 2012

The introduction of a hybrid genetic programming method (hGP) in fitting and forecasting of the broadband penetration data is proposed. The hGP uses some well-known diffusion models, such as those of Gompertz, Logistic, and Bass, in the initial population of the solutions in order to accelerate the algorithm. The produced solutions models of the hGP are used in fitting and forecasting the adoption of broadband penetration. We investigate the fitting performance of the hGP, and we use the hGP to forecast the broadband penetration in OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development) countries. The results of the optimized diffusion models are compared to those of the hGP-generated models. The comparison indicates that the hGP manages to generate solutions with high-performance statistical indicators. The hGP cooperates with the existing diffusion models, thus allowing multiple approaches to forecasting. The modified algorithm is implemented in the Python programming language, which is fast in execution time, compact, and user friendly.
Immobilized TiO2 for Phenol Degradation in a Pilot‐Scale Photocatalytic Reactor
Authors: Mozia Sylwia , Brożek Piotr , Przepiórski Jacek , Tryba Beata , Morawski Antoni W.
Published: October 2012

Phenol degradation was carried out in a photocatalytic pilot plant reactor equipped with a UV/vis mercury lamp. The total volume of treated water was equal to 1.35 m3. TiO2 P25 was used as a photocatalyst and it was immobilized on two different supports: (i) a steel mesh and (ii) a fiberglass cloth. Moreover, the performance of commercially available Photospheres‐40 was examined. In addition, an experiment in the absence of a photocatalyst was conducted. The commercially available Photospheres‐40 were found to be inadequate for the presented application due to their fragility, which in connection with vigorous mixing and pumping led to their mechanical destruction and loss of floating abilities. The highest effectiveness of phenol decomposition and mineralization was observed in the presence of TiO2 supported on the fiberglass cloth. After 15 h of the process, phenol and total organic carbon concentrations decreased by ca. 80% and 50%, respectively.
Role of TGF-β1/Smad3 Signaling Pathway in Secretion of Type I and III Collagen by Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells of Rats Undergoing Balloon Injury
Authors: Lu Ping , Wang Songhao , Cai Wenwei , Sheng Jing
Published: October 2012

Antisense Smad3 adenoviral vectors were used to transfect vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) from rats with balloon injury or infused into the rat balloon-catheter injured carotid arteries, and the role of TGF-β1/Smad3 signaling pathway in the secretion of type I and III collagen by VSMCs following balloon injury was investigated. Antisense Smad3 adenoviral vectors were used to transfect these VSMCs (antisense Smad3 group). A total 90 rats were randomly assigned into blank control group, experiment group, negative control group. In thein vitrostudy, the expression of type I and III collagen was markedly reduced in the antisense Smad3 group when compared with the control groups (P<0.05). In thein vivostudy, the expression of type I and III collagen was significantly lower than that in the negative control group at 3 days, 1 week and 2 weeks after injury (P<0.05). At 2 weeks and 3 months after injury, the lumen area in the antisense Smad3 group was markedly increased but the intimal area dramatically reduced when compared with the negative control (P<0.05). We conclude that transfection of VSMCs with antisense Smad3 can reduce the secretion of type I and III collagen which then inhibit intimal hyperplasia.
Quasilinearization Technique for -Laplacian Type Equations
Authors: Yermachenko Inara , Sadyrbaev Felix
Published: October 2012

An equation is considered together with the boundary conditions , . This problem under appropriate conditions can be reduced to quasilinear problem for two-dimensional differential system. The conditions for existence of multiple solutions to the original problem are obtained by multiply applying the quasilinearization technique.
Analysis of Rutin from Lespedeza virgata (Thunb.) DC. by Microwave‐Assisted Extraction and Capillary Electrophoresis
Authors: Zhang Fan , Qi Xiaohua , Zou Mingqiang , Li Jinfeng
Published: October 2012

A simple and rapid microwave‐assisted extraction (MAE) technique was developed for the extraction of rutin from Lespedeza virgata (Thunb.) DC. The influence of four extraction variables on extraction of rutin was discussed. The optimum extraction conditions found were 75% aqueous ethanol, solvent volume to sample weight ratio at 90 : 1, extracting temperature at 75°C, and extraction time for 15 min. A comparison was made among MAE, classical maceration, and ultrasonic‐assisted extraction (UAE). Yields were determined by high‐performance capillary electrophoresis (HPCE). The whole analysis process was completed in ten minutes. The needful volumes of sample and buffer are very little. Compared with maceration and ultrasonic extraction, MAE is a rapid method with higher yield and less solvent consumption.
An Insertion/Deletion Polymorphism within RERT-lncRNA Modulates Hepatocellular Carcinoma Risk
Authors: Zhu Zhansheng , Gao Xueren , He Yan , Zhao Hua , Yu Qiang , Jiang Deke , Zhang Pingzhao , Ma Xiaopin , Huang Huixing , Dong Dong , Wan Jiao , Gu Zhenyong , Jiang Xinghong , Yu Long , Gao Yuzhen
Published: October 2012

The Prolyl hydroxylase 1 (EGLN2) is known to affect tumorigenesis by regulating the degradation of hypoxia-inducible factor. Polymorphisms in EGLN2 may facilitate cancer cell survival under hypoxic conditions and directly associate with cancer susceptibility. Here, we examined the contribution of a 4-bp insertion/deletion polymorphism (rs10680577) within the distal promoter of EGLN2 to the risk of hepatocelluar carcinoma (HCC) in Chinese populations. The contribution of rs10680577 to HCC risk was investigated in 623 HCC cases and 1,242 controls and replicated in an independent case–control study consisting of 444 HCC cases and 450 controls. Logistic regression analysis showed that the deletion allele of rs10680577 was significantly associated with increased risk for HCC occurrence in both case–control studies [OR = 1.40; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.18–1.66, P < 0.0001; OR = 1.49; 95% CI = 1.18–1.88, P = 0.0007]. Such positive association was more pronounced in current smokers (OR = 3.49, 95% CI = 2.24–5.45) than nonsmokers (OR = 1.24, 95% CI = 1.03–1.50; heterogeneity P = 0.0002). Genotype–phenotype correlation studies showed that the deletion allele was significantly correlated with higher expression of both EGLN2 and RERT-lncRNA [a long noncoding RNA whose sequence overlaps with Ras-related GTP-binding protein 4b (RAB4B) and EGLN2)] in vivo and in vitro. Furthermore, RERT-lncRNA expression was also significantly correlated with EGLN2 expression in vivo, consistent with in vitro gain-of-function study that showed overexpressing RERT-lncRNA upregulated EGLN2. Finally, in silico prediction suggested that the insertion allele could disrupt the structure of RERT-lncRNA. Taken together, our findings provided strong evidence for the hypothesis that rs10680577 contributes to hepatocarcinogenesis, possibly by affecting RERT-lncRNA structure and subsequently EGLN2 expression, making it a promising biomarker for early diagnosis of HCC. Cancer Res; 72(23); 6163–72. ©2012 AACR.
ICOS-Ligand Expression on Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cells Supports Breast Cancer Progression by Promoting the Accumulation of Immunosuppressive CD4+ T Cells
Authors: Faget Julien , Bendriss-Vermare Nathalie , Gobert Michael , Durand Isabelle , Olive Daniel , Biota Cathy , Bachelot Thomas , Treilleux Isabelle , Goddard-Leon Sophie , Lavergne Emilie , Chabaud Sylvie , Blay Jean Yves , Caux Christophe , Ménétrier-Caux Christine
Published: October 2012

Human breast tumors are infiltrated by memory CD4+ T cells along with increased numbers of regulatory T cells (Treg) and plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDC) that facilitate immune escape and correlate with poor prognosis. Here, we report that inducible costimulatory molecule (ICOS), a T cell costimulatory molecule of the CTLA4/PD1/CD28 family, is expressed mostly by tumor-associated Treg in primary breast tumors. A large proportion of these ICOS+ Treg were Ki67+ and this evident proliferative expansion was found to rely on interactions with tumor-associated pDC. Indeed, tumor-associated Treg highly expanded in presence of pDC but failed to proliferate under CD3/CD28 signal. In vitro experiments revealed that the addition of a neutralizing anti-ICOS antibody blocked pDC-induced Treg expansion and interleukin-10 secretion by memory CD4+ T cells, establishing a pivotal role for ICOS in this process. Supporting these findings, the presence of ICOS+ cells in clinical specimens of breast cancer correlated with a poor prognosis. Together, our results highlight an important relationship between Treg and pDC in breast tumors, and show that ICOS/ICOS-L interaction is a central event in immunosuppression of tumor-associated memory CD4+ T cells. These findings strongly rationalize antibody-mediated ICOS blockade as a powerful clinical strategy to correct immune escape and promote therapeutic responses in breast cancer. Cancer Res; 72(23); 6130–41. ©2012 AACR.
Antitumor Activity of a Duocarmycin Analogue Rationalized to Be Metabolically Activated by Cytochrome P450 1A1 in Human Transitional Cell Carcinoma of the Bladder
Authors: Sutherland Mark , Gill Jason H. , Loadman Paul M. , Laye Jonathan P. , Sheldrake Helen M. , Illingworth Nicola A. , Alandas Mohammed N. , Cooper Patricia A. , Searcey Mark , Pors Klaus , Shnyder Steve D. , Patterson Laurence H.
Published: October 2012

We identify cytochrome P450 1A1 (CYP1A1) as a target for tumor-selective drug development in bladder cancer and describe the characterization of ICT2700, designed to be metabolized from a prodrug to a potent cytotoxin selectively by CYP1A1. Elevated CYP1A1 expression was shown in human bladder cancer relative to normal human tissues. RT112 bladder cancer cells, endogenously expressing CYP1A1, were selectively chemosensitive to ICT2700, whereas EJ138 bladder cells that do not express CYP1A1 were significantly less responsive. Introduction of CYP1A1 into EJ138 cells resulted in 75-fold increased chemosensitivity to ICT2700 relative to wild-type EJ138. Negligible chemosensitivity was observed in ICT2700 in EJ138 cells expressing CYP1A2 or with exposure of EJ138 cells to CYP1B1- or CYP3A4-generated metabolites of ICT2700. Chemosensitivity to ICT2700 was also negated in EJ138-CYP1A1 cells by the CYP1 inhibitor α-naphthoflavone. Furthermore, ICT2700 did not induce expression of the AhR-regulated CYP1 family, indicating that constitutive CYP1A1 expression is sufficient for activation of ICT2700. Consistent with the selective activity by CYP1A1 was a time and concentration-dependent increase in γ-H2AX protein expression, indicative of DNA damage, associated with the activation of ICT2700 in RT112 but not EJ138 cells. In mice-bearing CYP1A1-positive and negative isogenic tumors, ICT2700 administration resulted in an antitumor response only in the CYP1A1-expressing tumor model. This antitumor response was associated with detection of the CYP1A1-activated metabolite in tumors but not in the liver. Our findings support the further development of ICT2700 as a tumor-selective treatment for human bladder cancers. Mol Cancer Ther; 12(1); 27–37. ©2012 AACR.
Salt-Dependent Inhibition of Epithelial Na
+
Channel–Mediated Sodium Reabsorption in the Aldosterone-Sensitive Distal Nephron by Bradykinin
Authors: Mamenko Mykola , Zaika Oleg , Doris Peter A. , Pochynyuk Oleh
Published: October 2012

We have documented recently that bradykinin (BK) directly inhibits activity of the epithelial Na
+
channel (ENaC) via the bradykinin B2 receptor (B2R)-G
q/11
-phospholipase C pathway. In this study, we took advantage of mice genetically engineered to lack bradykinin receptors (B1R, B2R
−/−
) to probe a physiological role of BK cascade in regulation of ENaC in native tissue, aldosterone-sensitive distal nephron. Under normal sodium intake (0.32% Na
+
), ENaC open probability (
P
o
) was modestly elevated in B1R, B2R
−/−
mice compared with wild-type mice. This difference is augmented during elevated Na
+
intake (2.00% Na
+
) and negated during Na
+
restriction (<0.01% Na
+
). Saturation of systemic mineralocorticoid status with deoxycorticosterone acetate similarly increased ENaC activity in both mouse strains, suggesting that the effect of BK on ENaC is independent of aldosterone. It is accepted that angiotensin-converting enzyme represents the major pathway of BK degradation. Systemic inhibition of angiotensin-converting enzyme with captopril (30 mg/kg of body weight for 7 days) significantly decreases ENaC activity and
P
o
in wild-type mice, but this effect is diminished in B1R, B2R
−/−
mice. At the cellular level, acute captopril (100 μmol/L) treatment sensitized BK signaling cascade and greatly potentiated the inhibitory effect of 100 nmol/L of BK on ENaC. We concluded that BK cascade has its own specific role in blunting ENaC activity, particularly under conditions of elevated sodium intake. Augmentation of BK signaling in the aldosterone-sensitive distal nephron inhibits ENaC-mediated Na
+
reabsorption, contributing to the natriuretic and antihypertensive effects of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibition.
Low-Sodium Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension Diet Reduces Blood Pressure, Arterial Stiffness, and Oxidative Stress in Hypertensive Heart Failure With Preserved Ejection Fraction
Authors: Hummel Scott L. , Seymour E. Mitchell , Brook Robert D. , Kolias Theodore J. , Sheth Samar S. , Rosenblum Hannah R. , Wells Joanna M. , Weder Alan B.
Published: October 2012

Recent studies suggest that oxidative stress and vascular dysfunction contribute to heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFPEF). In salt-sensitive HFPEF animal models, diets low in sodium and high in potassium, calcium, magnesium, and antioxidants attenuate oxidative stress and cardiovascular damage. We hypothesized that the sodium-restricted Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension diet (DASH/SRD) would have similar effects in human hypertensive HFPEF. Thirteen patients with treated hypertension and compensated HFPEF consumed the DASH/SRD for 21 days (all food/most beverages provided). The DASH/SRD reduced clinic systolic (155–138 mm Hg;
P
=0.02) and diastolic blood pressure (79–72 mm Hg;
P
=0.04), 24-hour ambulatory systolic (130–123 mm Hg;
P
=0.02) and diastolic blood pressure (67–62 mm Hg;
P
=0.02), and carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (12.4–11.0 m/s;
P
=0.03). Urinary F2-isoprostanes decreased by 31% (209–144 pmol/mmol Cr;
P
=0.02) despite increased urinary aldosterone excretion. The reduction in urinary F2-isoprostanes closely correlated with the reduction in urinary sodium excretion on the DASH/SRD. In this cohort of HFPEF patients with treated hypertension, the DASH/SRD reduced systemic blood pressure, arterial stiffness, and oxidative stress. These findings are characteristic of salt-sensitive hypertension, a phenotype present in many HFPEF animal models and suggest shared pathophysiological mechanisms linking these 2 conditions. Further dietary modification studies could provide insights into the development and progression of hypertensive HFPEF.
Secular Trends, Treatments, and Outcomes of Middle Eastern Arab and South Asian Patients Hospitalized With Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Salam Amar M. , AlBinali Hajar A. , Al-Mulla Abdul Wahid , Singh Rajvir , Suwaidi Jassim Al
Published: October 2012

A prospective registry was made of all patients hospitalized with atrial fibrillation (AF) in the State of Qatar from 1991 to 2010. Clinical characteristics, management, and outcomes were compared according to ethnicity (Middle Eastern Arab vs South Asian). During this 20-year period, 2857 Arabs and 548 Asians were hospitalized for AF. Arabs were 9 years older and more likely to have hypertension, diabetes mellitus (DM), chronic renal impairment, and dyslipidemia than the Asians. Valvular heart disease and acute coronary syndromes were more common among Asians, while congestive heart failure was more common in Arabs. The overall inhospital mortality was lower in Asians than that of Arabs, while stroke rates were comparable. There was an increase in the prevalence of DM and hypertension in both the groups in the latter years of the study period, but there was no change in mortality trends. Our findings underscore the need to study AF according to ethnicity.
Mean Platelet Volume and Extent and Complexity of Coronary Artery Disease in Diabetic and Nondiabetic Patients With ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Şahin Durmuş Yıldıray , Gür Mustafa , Elbasan Zafer , Özdoğru İbrahim , Uysal Onur Kadir , Kıvrak Ali , Gözübüyük Gökhan , Türkoğlu Caner , Özkan Buğra , Çaylı Murat
Published: October 2012

We investigated whether the mean platelet volume (MPV) is associated with the extent and complexity of coronary artery disease in patients with ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). We prospectively included 912 STEMI patients (663 male and 249 female; mean age 58.7 ± 12.4 years) who underwent primary percutaneous coronary intervention. The patients were divided into 3 groups according to MPV tertiles. Highest SYNTAX score (SS) was observed in MPVhigh group compared with MPVmid and MPVlow groups ( P < .001 for all). The SS of MPVmid group was higher than MPVlow group ( P = .036). The MPV in diabetic STEMI patients was higher than in nondiabetic STEMI patients ( P < .001). Multivariate linear regression analysis showed that the MPV was associated with diabetes (β = .115, P = .001), troponin level (β = .131, P = .001), platelet count (β = −.241, P < .001), and SS (β = .216, P < .001). The relation between MPV and SS in diabetic STEMI patients was stronger than for nondiabetic STEMI patients ( r = .473, P < .001 vs r = .129, P = .001).
William James and Jesus Christ in Late Capitalism
Authors: Martin Craig
Published: October 2012

Contemporary discourses on “religion” frequently use a distinction between “religious experience” and “institutional religion,” which we have inherited in part as a result of the popularity of William James’ Varieties of Religious Experience. This paper offers a discourse analysis of this distinction—including how it has been taken up by people who say they are “spiritual, but not religious”—and demonstrates that the distinction often seems designed to sanction anything “religious” that might conflict with or upset the status quo in late capitalism. In addition, this paper considers how the distinction has been appropriated by writers who incorporate it into portrayals of Jesus that similarly legitimate a consumerist life under late capitalism.
Congrès eucharistique international 2008. Nation et catholicisme culturel au Québec. Signification d’une recomposition religio-politique
Authors: Meunier E.-Martin , Laniel Jean-François
Published: October 2012

This article explores the Church’s recent institutional and symbolic re-articulations with regard to the society and nation of Quebec. Its observations were collected during the 2008 International Eucharistic Congress, and over the course of an investigation led by the authors on the state of different facets of contemporary catholic practices (church involvement, attendance at Mass, marriage and baptism statistics). Tying field observations to statistical tendencies, this article takes a novel approach to better comprehend the evolution of the Catholic Church in its relations to Quebec society. In conjunction with the continued decline in catholic expression in Quebec since the Quiet Revolution, the shaping of a new religio-political configuration has been noted, at the centre of which the Catholic Church seeks to determine its current place and involvement.
Gifted Students’ Perceptions of Parenting Styles
Authors: Rudasill Kathleen Moritz , Adelson Jill L. , Callahan Carolyn M. , Houlihan Deanna Vogt , Keizer Benjamin M.
Published: October 2012

Children whose parents are warm and responsive yet also set limits and have reasonable expectations for their children tend to have better outcomes than their peers whose parents show less warmth and responsiveness, have low expectations, or both. Parenting behavior is related to family race and children’s sex, age, and cognitive ability. However, there is no work that examines how children’s cognitive abilities are related to their perceptions of their mothers’ and fathers’ parenting styles and the extent to which these relationships are moderated by race, sex, and age in a sample of gifted students. Participants ( N = 332, ages 9-17 years) attended a summer residential program for gifted students and completed the Parental Authority Questionnaire and the verbal battery of the Cognitive Abilities Test. Three main findings emerged. First, factor analyses provided support for the use of the Parent Authority Questionnaire with gifted populations. Second, findings from regression analyses as well as examinations of mean differences by cognitive ability level were consistent with earlier studies suggesting that more cognitively able students were likely to perceive their parents as employing a flexible (i.e., authoritative) parenting style. Finally, consonant with earlier studies with nonidentified populations, age, sex, and race were associated with parenting styles as reported by this group of identified gifted students. Results provide further support for the notion that authoritative parenting promotes positive outcomes for children, particularly those who have been identified as gifted.
Unraveling Representative Bureaucracy
Authors: Kennedy Brandy
Published: October 2012

Scholars have provided great theoretical insight and empirical understanding to the concept of representative bureaucracy, documenting the changing makeup of the civil service and demonstrating the importance of representative bureaucracy toward democratic governance. Yet, important questions remain. What specifically does bureaucratic representation mean? Is descriptive representation necessary for policy representation? What characteristics are important? How do we measure representation? Finally, are there any negative effects of representative bureaucracy? This article provides an overview and analysis of the literature focusing on how scholars define and measure representative bureaucracy. Efforts are made to emphasize achievements and highlight areas that need attention.
Exploring relationships between teacher identities and disciplinarity
Authors: Ballantyne Julie , Grootenboer Peter
Published: October 2012

The relationships between discipline specialization, teacher identity, and pedagogy can be seen as the crux of practice in the music classroom – impacting on all the actions of the teacher, both within and outside the classroom. Crucially, the impact of music teacher identity on the nature of music teaching and learning is one that has the potential to illuminate influences underlying the professional practices of teachers. This project explores how experienced, well-regarded teachers define their own identities, and implications of such identities to their practice. The primary mode of data collection was through extended semi-structured interviews, although observations of the classroom were also undertaken. Grounded theory analysis techniques were utilized, involving inductive and deductive coding to develop themes and sub-themes. The structured data set was then used to theorize the central topics of the study, while always returning to the empirical data for verification and exemplification. Findings suggest that music teachers identify firstly as performing musicians, and this impacts greatly on the way they perceive themselves in their teaching practice. The analysis raises questions about useful ways for music educators to conceive of their professional identities. Findings have the potential to provide insights into improving classroom practice.
Analysis of total copper, cadmium and lead in refuse-derived fuels (RDF): study on analytical errors using synthetic samples
Authors: Skutan Stefan , Aschenbrenner Philipp
Published: October 2012

Components with extraordinarily high analyte contents, for example copper metal from wires or plastics stabilized with heavy metal compounds, are presumed to be a crucial source of errors in refuse-derived fuel (RDF) analysis. In order to study the error generation of those ‘analyte carrier components’, synthetic samples spiked with defined amounts of carrier materials were mixed, milled in a high speed rotor mill to particle sizes <1 mm, <0.5 mm and <0.2 mm, respectively, and analyzed repeatedly. Copper (Cu) metal and brass were used as Cu carriers, three kinds of polyvinylchloride (PVC) materials as lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) carriers, and paper and polyethylene as bulk components. In most cases, samples <0.2 mm delivered good recovery rates (rec), and low or moderate relative standard deviations (rsd), i.e. metallic Cu 87–91% rec, 14–35% rsd, Cd from flexible PVC yellow 90–92% rec, 8–10% rsd and Pb from rigid PVC 92–96% rec, 3–4% rsd. Cu from brass was overestimated (138–150% rec, 13–42% rsd), Cd from flexible PVC grey underestimated (72–75% rec, 4–7% rsd) in <0.2 mm samples. Samples <0.5 mm and <1 mm spiked with Cu or brass produced errors of up to 220% rsd (<0.5 mm) and 370% rsd (<1 mm). In the case of Pb from rigid PVC, poor recoveries (54–75%) were observed in spite of moderate variations (rsd 11–29%). In conclusion, time-consuming milling to <0.2 mm can reduce variation to acceptable levels, even given the presence of analyte carrier materials. Yet, the sources of systematic errors observed (likely segregation effects) remain uncertain.
Municipal waste management and energy recovery in an Italian region
Authors: Cucchiella Federica , D’Adamo Idiano , Gastaldi Massimo
Published: October 2012

Diverting waste from landfill is one of the basic priorities on improving the use of resources and reducing the environmental impacts of waste management. In order to achieve this goal it is necessary to limit the amount of materials sent to final disposal and promote energy recovery. In Italy the use of recycling is registering a growing trend but the recourse to landfill is still too high with respect to European Commission targets. The aim of the paper was to analyse the financial and economic benefits that energy recovery could produce by diverting waste from landfills in an Italian region, as landfilling cannot be a solution in the long term because of its finite capacity and for various other ecological reasons. A sensitivity analysis on the critical variables of this plan and a risk analysis are also provided.
Say-on-Pay
Authors: Longnecker Brent , Kuschel Kevin
Published: October 2012

With the state of the economy slightly improving and the U.S. energy market experiencing increased exploration and production activities in shale plays, many companies and their investors are riding the wave of increased revenues and profitability. Although energy is succeeding overall, natural gas producers are struggling with the depressed state of the commodity price as a result of the realization that supply is currently greater than demand. As a result, poor total shareholder returns have Institutional Shareholder Services and shareholders unjustifiably calling for drastic changes to compensation. The natural gas industry will experience an uphill battle in the coming months as many companies attempt to avoid a failed say-on-pay vote.
Implications of Infant Cognition for Executive Functions at Age 11
Authors: Rose Susan A. , Feldman Judith F. , Jankowski Jeffery J.
Published: October 2012

Recent work suggests that executive functions, the cornerstone of higher-level cognitive operations, are driven by basic information processing abilities. Using structural equation modeling, with latent variables, the present study provides the first evidence that this driving force begins in infancy, such that abilities in infancy predict executive functions at age 11. Information processing abilities in three domains (attention, processing speed, and memory) were assessed when participants were infants (7 and 12 months) and toddlers (24 and 36 months) and were used to predict three executive functions (working memory, inhibition, and shifting) when participants were 11 years old. A model relating infant abilities to age-11 executive functions fit well, and accounted for 9% to 19% of the variance in the executive functions. Paths from both Speed and Memory in infancy to age-11 Working Memory were significant, as was the path from Speed in infancy to age-11 Shifting. A model using abilities in toddlerhood as predictors fit similarly. These findings implicate early basic cognitive abilities in the development of executive functions.
Gangs and the Web
Authors: Sela-Shayovitz Revital
Published: October 2012

There is a lack of research on gang members’ online behavior. The present study addresses this shortcoming by examining how gang members proactively use the Internet. Data were collected by means of in-depth, semistructured interviews with gang members. In addition, based on reports of gang members, the analysis focused on their group activity on the web. The findings reveal that the Internet does neither play a role in gang formation nor promote considerable changes in group traditional delinquency. However, it does influence socializing processes: Youths who have high-level computer knowledge provide guidance to others, which increases online delinquency. Moreover, the level of computer skills is a key factor in gang involvement in cybercrime: for gangs with members who have high-level computer skills, online delinquency becomes a routine part of the gang’s life, and interaction with other groups around the globe facilitates their involvement in cybercrime.
Differential Effect of Features of Autism on IQs Reported Using Wechsler Scales
Authors: Carothers Douglas E. , Taylor Ronald L.
Published: October 2012

Many children with autistic disorder, or autism, are described as having low intelligence quotients. These descriptions are partially based on use of various editions of the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC), the most widely used intelligence test for children with autism. An important question is whether task demands of the Wechsler scales are sensitive to unique characteristics of children with autism that might affect test performance. Another question relates to how changes in the newest edition of the WISC have affected its sensitivity for the population of individuals with autism. The administration guidelines and task demands of the third (WISC-III) and fourth (WISC-IV) editions were examined to determine appropriateness when measuring intelligence of children with autism. Implications related to use of these instruments with children with autism are discussed.
The Effects of a Picture Activity Schedule for Students With Intellectual Disability to Complete a Sequence of Tasks Following Verbal Directions
Authors: Duttlinger Cari , Ayres Kevin M. , Bevill-Davis Alicia , Douglas Karen H.
Published: October 2012

We investigated instruction of independent creation of picture activity schedules (PASs) and how four middle school students with intellectual disability used them to complete tasks independently. A withdrawal design (A-BC-B-A-B) was used to evaluate whether the intervention had an effect on the dependent variable and to test for generalization to a community setting in a pre/post format. After instruction on the PAS, participants learned to self-manage a strategy that served as a reminder for the tasks they needed to complete. All participants exhibited increased abilities to complete a sequence of three or five tasks following verbal directions when using the PAS as compared with the conditions where no PAS was utilized. In addition, these results generalized to the community setting of a mall food court. Our findings have implications for enhancing the independent functioning of individuals with intellectual disability and reducing reliance on others, with the potential for greater levels of self-determination.
A Decade of Evidence-Based Education
Authors: Detrich Ronnie , Lewis Teri
Published: October 2012

It has been 10 years since No Child Left Behind (NCLB), with its emphasis on scientifically based instruction as a means for improving the educational outcomes of students, was signed into law. In this article, we review the basic tenets of evidence-based practice as they apply to education as well as the progress that has been made in identifying, implementing, and evaluating evidence-based interventions since NCLB. We conclude that the greatest threat to evidence-based education is poor implementation of interventions. If evidence-based interventions are not implemented well, then the expected benefits are not likely to be realized.
Owner-assessed indices of quality of life in cats and the relationship to the presence of degenerative joint disease
Authors: Benito Javier , Gruen Margaret E , Thomson Andrea , Simpson Wendy , Lascelles B Duncan X
Published: October 2012

This study evaluated the types of items owners consider important to their cats’ quality of life (QoL). We hypothesized that items contributing to QoL in cats are predominantly items requiring mobility. The objectives of the study were to describe the types of items considered important by owners for their cats’ QoL; to describe the proportion of these items that involve mobility; to evaluate what patient factors, including severity of degenerative joint disease (DJD), affect this distribution; and to evaluate whether the proportion of QoL items involving mobility chosen by owners is different in cats presenting for a DJD study compared with a randomly selected population. A total of 830 client-generated items were evaluated. Regardless of DJD status, 40% of items listed by owners involved mobility, while 60% were ‘inactive’ items, rejecting our hypothesis. This highlights the need to assess non-active items that owners consider to constitute QoL to fully assess the impact of diseases like DJD and, therefore, the success of therapeutic interventions.
EDSS variability before randomization may limit treatment discovery in primary progressive MS
Authors: Zhang Jiameng , Waubant Emmanuelle , Cutter Gary , Wolinsky Jerry S , Glanzman Robert
Published: October 2012

Background:

Baseline Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) is usually based on a single measurement. Here we evaluated whether using a baseline EDSS derived from two pre-treatment measurements improves the detection of progression events and the ability to demonstrate a therapeutic effect in delaying MS disability progression.

Methods:

Real data from OLYMPUS, a phase II/III randomized, placebo-controlled trial of rituximab in patients with primary progressive multiple sclerosis (PPMS), as well as simulated data were analyzed. Several definitions of baseline EDSS were used to capture sustained disability progression (SDP) events. Variations in the EDSS were estimated by linear mixed-effect models.

Results:

Selecting the higher of two baseline EDSS scores lowered the number of SDP events in both treatment groups, so decreasing sensitivity, and reduced the number of false SDP events, so increasing specificity. Conversely, selecting the lower of two baseline scores increased sensitivity but decreased specificity. Increased power (~7% based on the simulation study) was observed when the average of screening and Week 0 EDSS scores was used for baseline.

Conclusion:

Baseline EDSS derived from two pre-treatment EDSS measurements may enhance the ability of detecting a therapeutic effect in slowing disability progression in PPMS. This strategy could be implemented in future clinical trials of patients with MS.
The dimensionality of the Scottish political space
Authors: Wheatley Jonathan , Carman Christopher , Mendez Fernando , Mitchell James
Published: October 2012

This article introduces Voting Advice Applications (VAAs) as a data-generating tool that can be used to measure the positions of party supporters in multidimensional policy space. It begins with an overview of the state of the art as regards methods for locating parties on a common policy space, in terms of how data are gathered and also in terms of how policy dimensions are identified and measured. We then use a dimension reduction technique to identify latent policy dimensions from a dataset obtained from a VAA carried out in Scotland in 2011. These dimensions are used to map the policy positions of supporters of five Scottish political parties. We argue that this tool allows more leverage on understanding the relative locations of parties ‘in the electorate’ in multidimensional policy space.
Behaviorally based adherence program for pediatric patients treated with positive airway pressure
Authors: Harford Kelli-Lee , Jambhekar Supriya , Com Gulnur , Pruss Kristi , Kabour Marianne , Jones Kaitlin , Ward Wendy L.
Published: October 2012

Objectives:

Positive Airway Pressure (PAP) devices are being increasingly used in pediatric populations for problems including Obstructive Sleep Apnea. There is limited literature regarding pediatric adherence with PAP treatment or successful interventions that improve adherence. This paper describes a clinical program for pediatric PAP users which was designed to improve adherence of patients prescribed PAP therapy and involves intensive assessment and behavioral intervention.

Method:

The design and implementation of the program is described, including the purpose, goals, programmatic structure, clinical content, type and training of personnel, strengths and limitations and financial concerns as well as the challenges with the development and application of the program’s protocol.

Results:

Preliminary outcome data show short-term improvements in consistent usage for many of the patients.

Conclusions:

The program shows some promise and provides a framework for future program development and research.
Self-perception in a clinical sample of gender variant children
Authors: Rijn Anouk Balleur-van , Steensma Thomas D , Kreukels Baudewijntje PC , Cohen-Kettenis Peggy T
Published: October 2012

Background:

Gender variance (GV) in childhood has a negative impact on the self-concept of children in the general population and can lead to mental health problems and even suicidal ideation in adulthood. This study explored the self-concept of clinically referred gender variant children and examined potential risk factors.

Method:

The Self-Perception Profile for Children was administered to 147 children, who were referred to a gender identity clinic. Their parents completed the Child Behaviour Checklist and the Gender Identity Questionnaire to assess the degree of GV.

Results:

The referred children were at risk of developing a negative self-concept; more specifically gender variant girls had low scores on ‘global self-worth’, ‘physical appearance’ and ‘behavioural conduct’ compared to Dutch norms for girls. Gender variant boys had low scores on ‘global self-worth’, ‘scholastic competence’, ‘athletic competence’ and ‘physical appearance’ compared to Dutch norms for boys. Within the group of referred children, sex differences, but no age effects, were found. The referred girls felt more competent than the referred boys on ‘athletic competence’ and ‘scholastic functioning’. For both boys and girls poor peer relations had a significant negative relationship with self-concept and more GV was related to a lower global self-worth.

Conclusions:

Clinically referred gender variant children seemed vulnerable to developing a negative self-concept. Poor peer relations and extreme GV might be mediating variables. Interventions might focus on enhancing acceptance of the environment and improving social skills of gender variant children.
Gendering attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: A discursive analysis of UK newspaper stories
Authors: Horton-Salway Mary
Published: October 2012

Discursive psychology is used to study the gendering of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in UK national newspapers in the period of 2009–2011. The analysis examines how gendering is embedded in causal attributions and identity constructions. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is portrayed as a predominantly male phenomenon with representations of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder being gendered through extreme stories about victims, villains or heroes that depict boys and men as marginalised, exceptional or dangerous. There is also a focus on mothers as the spokespersons and caretakers for parenting and family health while fathers are rendered more invisible. This contributes to our understanding of how attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is constructed in the media using a range of gendered representations that draw on cultural stereotypes familiar in Western societies.
Healthy Eating for Life English as a second language curriculum: Primary outcomes from a nutrition education intervention targeting cancer risk reduction
Authors: Duncan Lindsay R , Martinez Josefa L , Rivers Susan E , Latimer Amy E , Bertoli Michelle C , Domingo Samantha , Salovey Peter
Published: October 2012

We conducted a pre–post feasibility trial of Healthy Eating for Life, a theory-based, multimedia English as a second language curriculum that integrates content about healthy nutrition into an English language learning program to decrease cancer health disparities. Teachers in 20 English as a second language classrooms delivered Healthy Eating for Life to 286 adult English as a second language students over one semester. Postintervention data are available for 227 students. The results indicated that Healthy Eating for Life is effective for increasing fruit and vegetable intake as well as knowledge, action planning, and coping planning related to healthy eating. Participants also achieved higher reading scores compared to the state average.
Gender difference in wellbeing during school lessons among 10–12-year-old children: The importance of school subjects and student–teacher relationships
Authors: Palsdottir Aslaug , Asgeirsdottir Bryndis Bjork , Sigfusdottir Inga Dora
Published: October 2012

Aims: The aim of the study was to examine gender difference in self-reported wellbeing during school lessons among Icelandic 10–12-year-old boys and girls, in grades 5–7 in elementary schools. Also, to examine whether factors related to attitudes towards school subjects, student–teacher relationships and student–peer relationships mediated the associations between gender and wellbeing during school lessons. Methods: A cross-sectional anonymous survey was conducted among 88% (in total 11,387 participants) of all registered students aged 10–12 attending grades 5–7 in Iceland. Multivariate logistic regression was used to test main, mediation, and interaction effects. Results: Boys reported significantly less wellbeing during school lessons than girls. Not finding the subjects taught at school fun fully mediated the relationship between gender and self-reported wellbeing during school lessons. Furthermore, when not considering other school-related factors, finding the subjects at school to hard, not liking the teachers, not being praised by teachers, and being bullied in recess partially mediated the relationship between gender and self-reported wellbeing during school lessons. Conclusions: The results suggest that to improve boy’s wellbeing during school lessons, making school subject more appealing to boys is of importance. Furthermore, fostering teacher–student relationships and decreasing bullying of boys in recess should be emphasised.
“No alcohol, no party”: An explorative study of young Danish moderate drinkers
Authors: Frederiksen Nynne Johanne Sahl , Bakke Sunniva Leonore , Dalum Peter
Published: October 2012

Background: Danish youth has for years had the highest alcohol consumption in Europe, however recent surveys show that consumption levels have diminished slightly and that the age of first intoxication has been raised. Aim: To explore young moderate drinkers’ attitudes, values, and behaviour in relation to alcohol consumption. Design, setting, and participants: Data consists of 10 individual semi-structured interviews with 16–17-year-old moderate drinkers attending high school in Copenhagen, Denmark. Results: The study shows that the respondents perceive drinking as a necessity for feeling included at parties, but also that they do not feel a need to drink large amounts of alcohol in order to feel this social inclusion. The study finds that respondents employ a number of different behavioural and cognitive strategies aimed at controlling their own and close friends’ drinking behaviour, and that short-term negative social implications are of much greater concern than long-term health consequences. In addition, the study shows that parents have a limited direct influence in this group. Conclusions: The study identifies a group of young people who have clearly defined restrictions as to what they consider positive drinking behaviour. As parents and long-term health consequences only have an limited influence on the respondents’ drinking behaviour, these elements should not have primary focus in future interventions. In stead, interventions should take into account the social dynamics involved in drinking and recognise that the social qualities surrounding alcohol weighs higher among this group of young people than the quantity of alcohol consumed.