bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Neural Representation of Sequential States Within an Instructed Task
Authors: Campos Michael , Breznen Boris , Andersen Richard A.
Published: August 2010

In the study of the neural basis of sensorimotor transformations, it has become clear that the brain does not always wait to sense external events and afterward select the appropriate responses. If there are predictable regularities in the environment, the brain begins to anticipate the timing of instructional cues and the signals to execute a response, revealing an internal representation of the sequential behavioral states of the task being performed. To investigate neural mechanisms that could represent the sequential states of a task, we recorded neural activity from two oculomotor structures implicated in behavioral timing—the supplementary eye fields (SEF) and the lateral intraparietal area (LIP)—while rhesus monkeys performed a memory-guided saccade task. The neurons of the SEF were found to collectively encode the progression of the task with individual neurons predicting and/or detecting states or transitions between states. LIP neurons, while also encoding information about the current temporal interval, were limited with respect to SEF neurons in two ways. First, LIP neurons tended to be active when the monkey was planning a saccade but not in the precue or intertrial intervals, whereas SEF neurons tended to have activity modulation in all intervals. Second, the LIP neurons were more likely to be spatially tuned than SEF neurons. SEF neurons also show anticipatory activity. The state-selective and anticipatory responses of SEF neurons support two complementary models of behavioral timing, state dependent and accumulator models, and suggest that each model describes a contribution SEF makes to timing at different temporal resolutions.
Molecular and Other Novel Advances in Treatment of Metastatic Epithelial and Medullary Thyroid Cancers
Authors: Tai David , Poon Donald
Published: August 2010

An understanding of the mutations of the proto-oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes that occur in thyroid cancers should eventually explain the diverse clinical characteristics of these tumors and also direct therapy. Some insights have already emerged in the last decade; some abnormalities in tumor genes are consistently associated with specific clinical and pathologic findings. These genetic abnormalities usually represent somatic mutations in tumors of follicular epithelial origin, as opposed to inherited mutations in medullary thyroid cancers of parafollicular C cells origin because most thyroid tumors are sporadic and not familial. This is different from the multiple endocrine neoplasia syndromes in which the primary tumorigenic gene mutations are inherited. This improved understanding of the molecular basis of these diseases has led to the development of novel targeted therapeutic approaches which will be discussed in this paper.
Gene Expression Analysis Identifies Potential Biomarkers of Neurofibromatosis Type 1 Including Adrenomedullin
Authors: Hummel Trent R. , Jessen Walter J. , Miller Shyra J. , Kluwe Lan , Mautner Victor F. , Wallace Margaret R. , Lázaro Conxi , Page Grier P. , Worley Paul F. , Aronow Bruce J. , Schorry Elizabeth K. , Ratner Nancy
Published: August 2010

Purpose: Plexiform neurofibromas (pNF) are Schwann cell tumors found in a third of individuals with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1). pNF can undergo transformation to malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNST). There are no identified serum biomarkers of pNF tumor burden or transformation to MPNST. Serum biomarkers would be useful to verify NF1 diagnosis, monitor tumor burden, and/or detect transformation.

Experimental Design: We used microarray gene expression analysis to define 92 genes that encode putative secreted proteins in neurofibroma Schwann cells, neurofibromas, and MPNST. We validated differential expression by quantitative reverse transcription-PCR, Western blotting, and ELISA assays in cell conditioned medium and control and NF1 patient sera.

Results: Of 13 candidate genes evaluated, only adrenomedullin (ADM) was confirmed as differentially expressed and elevated in serum of NF1 patients. ADM protein concentrati on was further elevated in serum of a small sampling of NF1 patients with MPNST. MPNST cell conditioned medium, containing ADM and hepatocyte growth factor, stimulated MPNST migration and endothelial cell proliferation.

Conclusions: Thus, microarray analysis identifies potential serum biomarkers for disease, and ADM is a serum biomarker of NF1. ADM serum levels do not seem to correlate with the presence of pNFs but may be a biomarker of transformation to MPNST. Clin Cancer Res; 16(20); 5048–57. ©2010 AACR.
A Phase I/II Trial Combining High-Dose Melphalan and Autologous Transplant with Bortezomib for Multiple Myeloma: A Dose- and Schedule-Finding Study
Authors: Lonial Sagar , Kaufman Jonathan , Tighiouart Mourad , Nooka Ajay , Langston Amelia A. , Heffner Leonard T. , Torre Claire , McMillan Stephanie , Renfroe Heather , Harvey R. Donald , Lechowicz Mary J. , Khoury H. Jean , Flowers Christopher R. , Waller Edmund K.
Published: August 2010

Purpose: We did a randomized phase I/II trial designed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of combining the proteasome inhibitor bortezomib with high-dose melphalan as the conditioning for high-dose therapy and autologous transplant for myeloma.

Experimental Design: Enrolled patients were limited to those who did not achieve a very good partial remission (VGPR) following one or more induction regimens, and were randomized to receive a single escalating dose of bortezomib (1.0, 1.3, or 1.6 mg/m2) either 24 hours before or 24 hours after high-dose melphalan. Dose escalation was based on the escalation with overdose control (EWOC), a Bayesian statistical model. Bone marrow aspirates were collected before initiation of therapy and at the time of transplant to evaluate which sequence resulted in maximal plasma cell apoptosis, and response to transplant was assessed by the International Myeloma Working Group criteria.

Results: Among 39 randomized patients, 20 received bortezomib after melphalan and 19 received bortezomib before melphalan. Toxicities and posttransplant hematopoietic recovery rates were similar between arms. The overall response rate for all patients was 87%, with 51% achieving a VGPR or better. Pharmacodynamic studies showed greater plasma cell apoptosis among patients who received bortezomib following melphalan.

Conclusions: The use of bortezomib in conjunction with high-dose melphalan is safe, with data suggesting improved efficacy. A single dose of bortezomib administered after high-dose melphalan is the recommended dose and schedule for future clinical investigation. Clin Cancer Res; 16(20); 5079–86. ©2010 AACR.
Effect of Sauropus androgynus Leaf Extracts on the Expression of Prolactin and Oxytocin Genes in Lactating BALB/C Mice
Authors: Soka Susan , Alam Herlina , Boenjamin Novalia , Agustina Tan W. , Suhartono Maggy T.
Published: August 2010

Sauropus androgynus is traditionally consumed by Indonesians and is believed to increase breast milk production during lactation. Lactation, a process of milk synthesis and secretion, occurs with the help of 2 hormones, prolactin and oxytocin. The expressions of genes encoding prolactin and oxytocin were analyzed in lactating BALB/C mice brains using qRT-PCR. A total of 24 lactating BALB/C mice were fed with experimental diets for 12 days. Two groups of lactating mice were fed with diets containing either young or mature S. androgynus leaf extracts. For the control, one group of lactating mice was fed a diet without S. androgynus leaf extracts. Supplementation of young S. androgynus leaf extracts increased the expression of prolactin and oxytocin genes in lactating mice 9.04- and 2.25-fold, respectively. Meanwhile, supplementation of mature S. androgynus leaf extracts increased the expressions of both genes 15.75- and 25.77-fold, respectively, compared to the control group. The result suggested that mature S. androgynus leaf extracts significantly increased the expressions of both genes in lactating BALB/C mice and was predicted to correlate with papaverine content, which is only detected in mature S. androgynus leaves at a concentration of 0.38 ± 0.04 µg·ml–1.
Thyroid Hormones Are Associated with Poorer Cognition in Mild Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Quinlan Patrick , Nordlund Arto , Lind Karin , Gustafson Deborah , Edman Åke , Wallin Anders
Published: August 2010

Background: Alterations in interrelated endocrine axes may be related to the pathogenesis of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and dementia. Methods: Salivary cortisol before and after a 0.5-mg dexamethasone test, and serum levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone, total thyroxine (T4), free T4, total triiodothyronine (TT3), estradiol, testosterone and insulin-like growth factor 1 were measured in 43 MCI cases and 26 healthy controls. All participants underwent a comprehensive neuropsychological test battery covering the cognitive domains of speed/attention, memory, visuospatial functions, language and executive functions. Results: The MCI group did not differ in basal levels of endocrine markers compared to controls. Among those with MCI, TT3 levels were inversely associated with cognitive performance across all domains. After stratifying MCI cases according to TT3 levels, those with relatively high TT3 levels showed impairment in memory as well as in visuospatial and executive functions. Those with TT3 levels at or below the lower boundary of the normal range performed comparably to healthy controls. Other endocrine markers were not related to cognitive performance. Conclusions: Among those with MCI, TT3 was associated with a neuropsychological profile typical of prodromal Alzheimer’s disease. While the mechanisms remain unclear, optimal levels of thyroid hormone under a compromising condition such as MCI and related neuropathology need reconsideration.
Is There an Association between the Use of Anabolic-Androgenic Steroids and Criminality?
Authors: Skårberg Kurt , Nyberg Fred , Engström Ingemar
Published: August 2010

Aims: The aim of this study was to improve our understanding of the proposed association between anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) and criminality. Methods: The study was based on interviews and criminality data involving 32 users of AAS who had sought treatment for AAS-related problems at a psychiatric addiction clinic in Sweden. A score derived from the number of crimes, their level of severity and the relevant time periods was computed to allow comparisons between subgroups sorted according to type and timing of drug use. Results: The criminal activity level increased for 69% of the individuals after having started to use drugs. This was particularly obvious in the group who had started its involvement with drugs by using AAS. Crimes of violence and weapon offences showed a great increase in incidence after drug use had been initiated. The study also showed a significant decrease in criminality after treatment, particularly among individuals who had started their drug use with AAS. Conclusion: The results suggest that there is an association between the use of AAS and criminality, especially with regard to crimes of violence and weapon offences, and that this criminality may be enhanced when AAS are combined with other drugs of abuse.
A Case Report of Inpatient Detoxification after Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) Dependence
Authors: McWhirter Laura , Morris Siobhan
Published: August 2010

Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) has been used for medicinal and recreational purposes. It has reported analgesic, euphoric and antitussive effects via its action as an agonist at opioid receptors. It is illegal in many countries including Thailand, Malaysia, Myanmar, South Korea and Australia; however, it remains legal or uncontrolled in the UK and USA, where it is easily available over the Internet. We describe a case of kratom dependence in a 44-year-old man with a history of alcohol dependence and anxiety disorder. He demonstrated dependence on kratom with withdrawal symptoms consisting of anxiety, restlessness, tremor, sweating and cravings for the substance. A reducing regime of dihydrocodeine and lofexidine proved effective in treating subjective and objective measures of opioid-like withdrawal phenomena, and withdrawal was relatively short and benign. There are only few reports in the literature of supervised detoxification and drug treatment for kratom dependence. Our observations support the idea that kratom dependence syndrome is due to short-acting opioid receptor agonist activity, and suggest that dihydrocodeine and lofexidine are effective in supporting detoxification.
Computation of Na and Water Deficit of Iso-Osmolar Dehydration
Authors: Sainaghi P.P. , Bergamasco L. , Castello L. , Steffanini M. , Bartoli E.
Published: August 2010

Background and Aims: The presence of altered plasma Na concentration (PNa) allows calculations of changes in water and electrolyte contents, which are not feasible during normonatremic derangements. We have developed a computational algorithm whereby the changes in solute (ΔNa and ΔCl) and solvent (ΔV) contents can be computed exactly when Na is lost entirely as NaCl (or NaHCO3) and nearly exactly in all other circumstances, except when the losses of Na and Cl occur in the same proportions as those of the normal plasma concentration of these ions. Methods: In computer experiments, we simulated different fluid depletions containing 140 mEq/l of Na (which is to say, ΔNa/ΔV ≈ 140), coupled with variable ratios in Na to Cl losses (variable ΔNa/ΔCl). The data were back-calculated with our algorithms from the ensuing plasma ion concentrations (PNa1, PCl1 and POAN1, where subscript ₀ and 1 indicate normal and deranged plasma concentration values, respectively, and OAN indicates anions other than Cl), as if they had been measured on patients, and from known normal values (TBW₀, ECV₀, Na₀). These were compared to the true values used to build the simulations. This procedure was reproduced in 17 patients suffering from iso-osmolar dehydration, where true data were obtained by balance studies. Results: True and calculated data were compared with linear regression analysis. We obtained significant correlations both in computer-simulated and real patients (R2 = 0.83, p < 0.005 and R2 = 0.63, p < 0.05, respectively). Conclusion: This new math model and its related computational method are useful in the correct evaluation and treatment of iso-osmolar dehydration.
Globalization, contemporary challenges and social work practice
Authors: Dominelli Lena
Published: August 2010

Globalization has had a profound effect on social work practice, changing service delivery; altering the labour process for professional social workers; creating new social problems for practitioners to address, such as people-trafficking and environmental issues; and producing demands for indigenization, or the development of locality specific forms of theory and practice. This article considers globalization in terms of these issues and the impact of the current financial crisis on a more closely connected and interdependent world. It also explores the role of the state in these developments and considers the implications of these for social work practice in the 21st century.
The Effects of Mold Design on the Pore Morphology of Polymers Produced with MuCell ®Technology
Authors: Wu HongBin , Wintermantel Erich , Haugen Håvard J.
Published: August 2010

In this study two molds were designed and used in MuCell® technology to generate implants with a porous structure. To arrive the desired pore structure many process parameters were investigated for indicating the effects of process parameters on the pore morphology. This process parameter investigation was performed on each mold respectively, so that the influences of the mold design on the pore morphology have been researched by the same process parameter setting. It was found that the mold design also had effects on the pore structure in MuCell® technology. A proper mold design could improve the generated pore structure, such as porosity, pore diameter, and interconnectivity.
Infiltrants Inhibit Progression of Natural Caries Lesions in vitro
Authors: Paris S. , Meyer-Lueckel H.
Published: August 2010

To define the optimized material properties of caries-infiltrating resins (infiltrants), we evaluated the effects of infiltrant composition and penetration coefficient (PC) on the inhibition of the progression of natural approximal caries lesions in vitro. Non-cavitated natural enamel lesions were etched (15% HCl gel) and infiltrated for 5 min with experimental resins varying in PC (cm/sec): PC63, PC185, PC204, and PC391. As a positive control (PosC), lesions were covered with flowable composite resin, whereas untreated lesions served as negative controls (NegC). Specimens were exposed to a demineralizing solution (pH 4.95) for 400 days. Progression of mineral loss was analyzed by transverse wavelength-independent microradiography. Percentage progressions of NegC [median (25th/75th percentile), 24 (10/56)], PC63 [9 (3/39)], and PC185 [12 (9/24)] were significantly higher compared with those of PosC [1 (-8/8)], PC204 [-2 (-4/2)], and PC391 [0 (-5/9)] (p < 0.05). Thus, infiltrants with PC > 200 cm/sec are capable of inhibiting lesion progression.
The Use of Nanoparticles to Control Oral Biofilm Formation
Authors: Allaker R.P.
Published: August 2010

Nanoparticles are normally considered to be of a size no greater than 100 nm, and the exploitation of their unique attributes to combat infection has increased markedly over the past decade. The potential of nanoparticles to control the formation of biofilms within the oral cavity, as a function of their biocidal, anti-adhesive, and delivery capabilities, is now coming under close scrutiny. Possible uses as constituents of prosthetic device coatings, as topically applied agents, and within dental materials are being explored. The latest insights into the application of nanoparticles in the control of oral infections, including their use in photodynamic therapy, will be discussed in this review. In particular, the use of nanoparticulate silver, copper, zinc, silicon, and their oxides will be considered in relation to their effects on bacterial populations. The recent interest in the applications of nanoparticulate polymers and calcium phosphates will also be assessed. Particular attention will be paid to the toxicity issues surrounding the potential impact of nanoparticles on oral and other tissues.
CDM-based closed-loop transfer function design for ramp input
Authors: Haeri Mohammad , Mohammad Saleh Tavazoei
Published: August 2010

This paper presents a method to determine the denominator and numerator polynomials of a closed-loop transfer function in order to obtain desired transient and steady-state responses in terms of the overshoot, speed (time needed for the relative error to become less than a specific amount) and the steady-state error when the desired output is a ramp signal. Meanwhile, a controller is designed with the same characteristic equation for the closed-loop system to eliminate step and ramp disturbances.
Robot manipulator calibration using neural network and a camera-based measurement system
Authors: Wang Dali , Bai Ying , Zhao Jiying
Published: August 2010

A robot manipulator calibration method is proposed using a camera-based measurement system and a neural network algorithm. The position errors at various points within the calibration space are first obtained by camera-based measurement devices. A window consisting of multiple cells surrounding the interpolated positions is used to form the input and output pairs of training data set. A neural network model is utilized to approximate the error surface. The target pose is then compensated for by the position errors obtained by the neural network model. Numerical experiment is performed based on a common industrial set-up. A significant improvement in accuracy is obtained by the proposed techniques in comparison with traditional bilinear analytical methods.
Towards a liberal Utopia: The connection between Foucault’s reporting on the Iranian Revolution and the ethical turn
Authors: Beaulieu Alain
Published: August 2010

The shift in Foucault’s work from genealogy to ethics finds consensus among Foucault scholars. However, the motivations behind this transition remain either misunderstood or understudied in large part. Foucault’s recently published or soon-to-be translated 1977/—9 lectures (published as Security, Territory, Population and as The Birth of Biopolitics) offer new elements for understanding this dense and uncharted period along Foucault’s itinerary. In this article, the author argues that Foucault’s interpretation of the liberal tradition, which is at the core of the 1977—9 lectures, must be examined in combination with Foucault’s other major interests in the late 1970s, namely the Iranian Revolution and Kant. The discovery of spirituality (Iran), the valorization of an autonomous subject (Kant) and the call for a tolerant environment towards minority practices (liberalism) pave the way for the later Foucault’s ethics, which are grounded in spiritual exercises and means of liberating the subject.
Democratic darkness and Adorno’s redemptive criticism
Authors: Douglas Andrew J.
Published: August 2010

Adorno’s critical theory aims to open space for the expression of alternative futures, but its insistence on dialectical reflection encourages at the same time our sustained attentiveness to the psychic and material constraints that may prevent the very possibilities we imagine. In this article, I argue that dialectical reflection signals a location at which transcendental claims enter our thinking and that, for Adorno, such reflection provides a locus for a critically animating interplay between rhetorical figurations of darkness and redemption, or material constraint and alternative possibility. Concerned less with the substance of Adorno’s criticisms than with how his dialectical mode of thinking can be said to shape critical reflection as such, I suggest that Adorno provides a model orientation for democratic engagement in our time and a sobering critical supplement to recent Derridean discourse on radical democracy.
An entrepreneurial network evolving: Patterns of change
Authors: Jack Sarah , Moult Susan , Anderson Alistair R , Dodd Sarah
Published: August 2010

It is now recognized that to broaden our understanding about networks more qualitative and longitudinal work is required that examines transformation and the change processes of networks; how they emerge and develop over time. The case study reported here deals with these issues. It considers the development of a network for new entrepreneurs first established by a local enterprise support agency in North East Scotland.This forum provided a near ‘natural experiment’ to chart network emergence, change and evolution. Employing participant observation, interviews and surveys, data were collected over a six-year period. This allowed the network to be mapped, and provided information about structural characteristics and in-depth detail about network dynamics and change processes over time. Findings show how network structure shifts from calculative to affective ties and demonstrate the importance of social ties for the operation of a network.
Smalltalk: Rhetoric of control as a barrier to growth in artisan micro-firms
Authors: Parry Simon
Published: August 2010

This article reports on a study that uses discourse analysis to provide a social constructionist view of growth barriers in micro-level firms. Although barriers to growth have been the subject of prior studies, no study to date has taken a linguistic-based interpretative approach to understand the mechanisms by which such barriers arise. The study is based upon semi-structured interviews with owner-managers of 20 micro-level artisan businesses. The analysis focuses on responses to questions concerning business growth. The analytical reading of these responses highlights references to business control and shows how the way control is discursively constructed influences management practices and in turn impacts on business growth. The findings suggest the need for a better understanding of the complex interrelationship between micro-firm management practices and participants’ lived business reality. The article identifies ways in which growth-barrier constructions arise and points to how they may be overcome through business intervention.
On gammon, global noise and indigenous heterogeneity: Words as things in aboriginal public culture
Authors: Fisher Daniel
Published: August 2010

‘Gammon’, a term derived from English and which can be glossed in Aboriginal Australia as meaning fake, cheap or broken, is shared across varieties of Aboriginal English and has become affectionately revered as icon of an intra-Aboriginal public culture. The shorter Oxford English Dictionary defines gammon as the distraction proffered as one’s pockets are picked and, more generally, as humbug or nonsense — glosses which capture the playful dissimulation and ‘put-ons’ of which gammon consists in northern Australia. This article details the correspondence between gammon as a style of intra-Aboriginal verbal play, neoliberal critiques of past Aboriginal policy and transnational concerns with authenticity in musical popular culture. I argue that Gammon’s mediatized resonance speaks at once to a colonially derived Aboriginal social complexity, recent, neoliberal shifts in the framework of Aboriginal government, and to discourses of the real in popular musical media.
The proposal economy
Authors: Stern Pamela , Hall Peter V.
Published: August 2010

Using the case of Cobalt, a former silver mining town in Northern Ontario, Canada, we trace the transition from social funding as a feature of the welfare state to social funding based on application, adjudication and award. We identify a process in the community development arena, whereby local governments, community organizations and community members are increasingly enmeshed in the bureaucratic and socially disengaging processes of proposal-writing. Cobalters regard aspects of this downward deflection of the locus of economic responsibility as fairer, and more transparent, than the previous funding regime. We show how a local moral economy and understanding of citizenship based on an ethic of caring has contributed, in a counterintuitive way, to an interim outcome of more public services. At the same time, the current pursuit of development funds via proposal is undermining the practices of civic engagement which have allowed the town to remain distinct for the past century.
Intramedullary Acromioclavicular Ligament Reconstruction Strengthens Isolated Coracoclavicular Ligament Reconstruction in Acromioclavicular Dislocations
Authors: Gonzalez-Lomas Guillem , Javidan Pooya , Lin Tony , Adamson Gregory J. , Limpisvasti Orr , Lee Thay Q.
Published: August 2010

Background

Techniques for reconstruction of the dislocated acromioclavicular (AC) joint abound. Most, however, do not address the injured AC ligaments and capsule. Evidence exists supporting the horizontal stabilizing effect of these ligaments on the AC joint. A novel AC and coracoclavicular (CC) reconstruction technique with an intramedullary free-tissue graft secured by suture buttons is low-profile, technically straightforward, and reproducible.

Hypothesis

A novel intramedullary AC reconstruction will strengthen an isolated free-tissue reconstruction of the CC ligaments.

Study Design

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods

Six cadaveric matched pair shoulders were tested with a custom testing system. Anterior-posterior and superior-inferior AC joint displacements (mm) were measured with AC joint compressions of 10 N, 20 N, and 30 N, and with translational loads of 10 N and 15 N. The same measurements were made after performing either a free-tissue tendon allograft CC reconstruction, or a free-tissue graft reconstruction of the CC and AC ligamentous complexes in the corresponding contralateral matched shoulder. The AC ligamentous complex was reconstructed with an intramedullary free-tissue graft secured by suture buttons. Load-to-failure testing was then performed on each construct. A paired t test was used for statistical analysis (P < .05).

Results

Mean anterior-posterior translation of the reconstruction of the CC and AC ligamentous complexes was 50% or less than that of the CC reconstruction in all loading conditions (P < .05). Mean superior-inferior translation did not differ among the groups. Overall load-to-failure testing did not differ between groups.

Conclusion

Intramedullary AC complex reconstruction utilizing free-tissue graft for reconstruction of both the CC and AC ligaments demonstrates significantly greater initial horizontal stability than a free tissue isolated CC reconstruction and is similar to intact specimens.

Clinical Relevance

This novel intramedullary AC ligament reconstruction may be considered when seeking to improve horizontal stability in an anatomical CC ligament reconstruction.
Late-Holocene human-induced changes to the extent of alpine areas in the East Sudetes, Central Europe
Authors: Novák Jan , Petr Libor , Treml Václav
Published: August 2010

The easternmost parts of the Hercynian mid-mountains of Central Europe, namely Hrubý Jeseník and Králický Sněžník, are characterised by extensive alpine areas at altitudes above approximately 1300 m a.s.l. In order to determine the contribution of human activities to the extent of these summit grasslands we analysed charcoal assemblages and pollen profiles taken from high elevation sites. The first burn was dated to the Iron Age (about the first to second centuries BC), with successive fire events recorded in the early Mediaeval epoch from about AD 670. Significant human influence as recorded in pollen diagrams was detected as late as during the High Middle Ages (about the twelfth to thirteenth centuries AD). Charcoal assemblages reveal similar trends in species composition. The oldest and/or deepest samples are represented by charcoal fragments of Picea abies and various broadleaf trees and shrubs such as Betula sp., Sorbus sp., Juniperus sp. and Salix sp. Towards the surface, Picea abies gradually becomes dominant and then Vaccinium charcoal particles dominate the charcoal pool. Radiocarbon data of individual charcoal fragments did not, however, confirm a stratification of charcoal in the soil. According to anthracomass, pollen and macrofossils, the pattern of forest-free areas was originally determined by terrain morphology. While forest-free patches occurred on exposed summits and the convex edges of summit plateaus, open canopy tree growths dominated high elevation summit flats, and closed canopy forests occurred on adjacent slopes.
The Development of an Instrument to Assess the Unmet Needs of Young People Who Have a Sibling With Cancer
Authors: Patterson Pandora , Millar Brett , Visser Alicia
Published: August 2010

The psychosocial needs of young people (aged 12-24) who have a sibling with cancer are still comparatively underresearched and largely underserviced. Steps taken in the development of a needs-based measure, the Sibling Cancer Needs Instrument (SCNI), are presented, involving a qualitative exploration of needs (focus group with 4 young people, telephone interviews with 7 young people, and a staff survey) and a quantitative piloting of the resulting first version of the SCNI on 71 young people. Results are explored in relation to the 10 identified domains of need (information, peer support [friends], peer support [similar experience], sibling relationship/support, expressing/coping with feelings, access to support services, respite/recreation, acknowledgement/attention for self, instrumental support, and involvement in the cancer experience). The survey data showed that 75% of young people endorsed 10 or more needs, whereas 50% endorsed more than half of all 80 needs, and on average, participants reported 10 unmet needs. Correlations between needs and psychological distress scores are also explored. Initial reliability, and face and content validity for the SCNI encourage further development of the instrument to assist in better monitoring and to meet the various needs of this underserviced population.
Race and Turnout: Does Descriptive Representation in State Legislatures Increase Minority Voting?
Authors: Rocha Rene R. , Tolbert Caroline J. , Bowen Daniel C. , Clark Christopher J.
Published: August 2010

The 2008 election marked an end to the longstanding gap in the level of black and white voter turnout, offering further evidence that minority empowerment affects voter turnout. In this article, the authors move beyond a dyadic conceptualization of empowerment and argue that the level of descriptive representation within the legislative body as a whole is crucial to understanding how context affects voter turnout. They find African Americans and Latinos are more likely to vote when residing in states with increased descriptive representation in the state legislature measured by the percentage of black or Latino lawmakers.
Politics at the Checkout Line
Authors: Newman Benjamin J. , Bartels Brandon L.
Published: August 2010

Political consumerism is the intentional buying or abstention from buying specific products for political, social, or ethical purposes. We develop and test hypotheses regarding the individual sources of political consumerism in the United States. Analysis of survey data shows that similar to voting, education, political interest, and citizen duty promote political consumerism. Akin to protest behavior, political consumerism is enhanced by political distrust and general discontent. In contrast to turnout, political consumerism significantly decreases with age. Given the extraelectoral and self-initiated nature of political consumerism, citizen initiative and a proclivity for individualized forms of activism are significant sources of political consumerism.
Cytokine and chemokine profiles in neuromyelitis optica: significance of interleukin-6
Authors: Uzawa Akiyuki , Mori Masahiro , Arai Kimihito , Sato Yasunori , Hayakawa Sei , Masuda Saeko , Taniguchi Junko , Kuwabara Satoshi
Published: August 2010

Background: Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) is assumed to be immunologically distinct from multiple sclerosis (MS). Adequate studies about cytokines and chemokines in NMO have been lacking.

Objective: To investigate the contribution of cytokines/chemokines in the pathogenesis of NMO.

Methods: We measured 27 cytokines/chemokines and Th17 cell-associated cytokines in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of 31 NMO, 29 MS and 18 other non-inflammatory neurological disorders patients. The serum levels of some cytokines/ chemokines were also measured. The correlations between clinical characteristics/laboratory findings and levels of cytokines/chemokines in NMO were examined.

Results: The CSF levels of interleukin (IL)-1 receptor antagonist, IL-6, IL-8, IL-13 and granulocyte colony-stimulating factor were significantly increased in NMO, while IL-9, fibroblast growth factor-basic, granulocyte macrophage colony-stimulating factor, macrophage inflammatory protein-1-beta and tumor necrosis factor-alpha were increased in MS. IL-10 and interferon-gamma-inducible protein-10 were elevated in NMO and MS. In serum analyses, only the IL-6 level showed significant elevation in NMO. The CSF IL-6 level had a significant correlation with the CSF glial fibrillary acidic protein level and CSF cells, and a weak correlation with anti-aquaporin-4 antibody titers.

Conclusions: Different immunological status and pathophysiologies exist between NMO and MS, and IL-6 may play important roles in the pathogenesis of NMO.
The prototype: presencing the immaterial
Authors: Buchli Victor
Published: August 2010

This article explores the social effects and materiality of the prototype. Three diverse cultural contexts and prototyping technologies are examined: the early Christian prototype in the Byzantine iconographic tradition; the rise of rapid prototyping in 20th-century industry; and the emergence of rapid manufacturing in the 21st century. Despite evident technological differences and complexities and divergent cultural contexts, the author argues that all three technologies work in a similar way through varying concepts of the prototype to produce and presence the immaterial and thereby create novel forms of social and material life. He shows how the prototype, as a concept, functions to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles of time, space and the material, whether through the creation of the Christian subject and the ancestor of Euro-American notions of the universalizing humanist subject or through the radically disruptive effects of rapid manufacturing (or three-dimensional printing) within late capitalism and with it the fraught emergence of the neo-liberal subject.
Longitudinal analysis of differential effects on agitation of a therapeutic wander garden for dementia patients based on ambulation ability
Authors: Ford Murphy Pamela , Miyazaki Yasuo , Detweiler Mark B. , Kim Kye Y.
Published: August 2010

A growth model within the framework of hierarchical linear modeling was used to assess the impact of visiting a wander garden on monthly agitation levels of a group of elderly veterans diagnosed with dementia, with attention to their ambulatory ability. A sample of 34 veterans residing in a locked ward in a dementia unit was observed for a baseline period and for twelve months after a wander garden was opened in their facility. Findings suggest that visiting the wander garden helped lower agitation levels in the dementia patients and that there was a differential effect based on the patient’s ability to walk unassisted.
Pain in communication impaired residents with dementia: Analysis of Resident Assessment Instrument (RAI) data
Authors: Brown Cary A.
Published: August 2010

Background: Pain has been identified as a significant and under-reported problem in the older adult and those persons with dementia who may face an impaired ability to communicate that they are in pain. Their pain, under-diagnosed and under-treated, has functional implications, such as decreased ambulation, mood and sleep disturbances, impaired appetite and exacerbation of cognitive functioning. Methods: Resident Assessment Instrument (RAI) data were analyzed in order to 1) identify a pain profile of all of the residents living in the facility across two sampling periods (December 2005 and December 2006) and 2) compare the pain profile of residents categorized into two subgroups (intact communication/impaired communication). Findings: Consistent with the literature, clear differences were demonstrated between pain reporting and management for communication impaired residents with dementia and residents with intact communication. Several incongruent findings were also demonstrated. Conclusions: The RAI is useful to identify patterns but insufficient in itself for pain management purposes in this vulnerable group. Pain assessment tools developed for this population must be employed.
Good days and bad days: The lived experience and perceived impact of treatment with cholinesterase inhibitors for Alzheimer’s disease in the United Kingdom
Authors: Hutchings Deborah , Vanoli Alessandro , Mckeith Ian , Brotherton Sue , Mcnamee Paul , Bond John
Published: August 2010

Although heralded as a major breakthrough in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease the experience and impact of using cholinesterase inhibitors (CHEIs) from the perspective of people with Alzheimer’s disease has not been widely reported. This qualitative study reports the lived experience of CHEI users and the perceived impact of the treatment. The views and experiences of 12 older people referred for memory problems or receiving treatment and 11 associated family carers were obtained using a combination of semi-structured interviews and focus groups. A key theme that emerged from the qualitative analysis was the belief that any new treatment ‘is worth a try’. For some participants the benefits of using CHEIs were ‘difficult to say’. Others reported seeing ‘a difference’, ‘getting no worse’ or no improvement in their symptoms. The study highlights the importance of listening to the voices of people with dementia and their family carers in the management of pharmaceutical treatments and the need to involve (potential) treatment users in defining quality-of-life outcomes in cost-effectiveness studies.
Screening for Hazardous Alcohol Use and Depressive Symptomatology Among HIV-Infected Patients in Nigeria: Prevalence, Predictors, and Association With Adherence
Authors: Farley John , Miller Erin , Zamani Andrew , Tepper Vicki , Morris Chester , Oyegunle Modupe , Lin Maria , Charurat Manhattan , Blattner William
Published: August 2010

Scores from the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) and the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale (CES-D) administered to both antiretroviral therapy (ART)-experienced and -naive adults in HIV care in Nigeria were evaluated for association with participant characteristics and ART adherence measured by pharmacy records. Participants included 222 ART-experienced and 177 ART-naive adults, of whom 47 (12%) had AUDIT ≥8, 29 (7%) an AUDIT ≥10, 52 (13%) a CES-D ≥16, and 25 (6%) a CES-D ≥21. An elevated AUDIT score was more frequent among ART-naive and men, while disclosure of HIV status to others was associated with lower scores. An elevated CES-D score was more frequent among ART-naive and those with lower educational level, while disclosure of HIV status and choosing to be interviewed in English rather than Hausa was associated with lower scores. An elevated CES-D score was associated with poor adherence.
Review Article: Adhesion Prevention and Reduction: Current Status and Future Recommendations of a Multinational Interdisciplinary Consensus Conference
Authors: Diamond Michael P. , Wexner Steven D. , diZereg Gere S. , Korell Matthias , Zmora Oded , Van Goor Harry , Kamar Moshe
Published: August 2010

Adhesions can be found after virtually every abdominopelvic operation performed through standard laparotomy as well as by laparoscopic approaches. Adhesions can be completely asymptomatic or can cause significant morbidity and mortality including strangulation, obstruction, and necrosis of bowel loops and/or infertility and organ injury during repeat abdominal surgery. Perhaps because of the multifactorial nature of adhesion development, prevention has been very limited. Three anti-adhesion products are commercially available, none of which has been universally accepted as a panacea. Part of the obstacles with adhesion management is the lack of an objective clinically relevant classification to allow their study. Because a single band can cause a life-threatening bowel obstruction, whereas extensive dense intra-abdominal adhesions may be asymptomatic, neither the mere presence or absence of adhesions nor their extent if present is totally adequate endpoints. Adhesions are a major health care burden, and their reduction is a significant unmet need in surgical therapeutics facing all surgeons. Of all the parameters assessing adhesions currently available, the authors believe that adhesion incidence (presence or absence) is the most relevant endpoint with a direct clinical implication. The authors endorse the development of a validated, clinically relevant scale to assess intra-abdominal adhesions. Given the present limitation of objective assessment of adhesions and prediction of their clinical effect, the authors also advocate, when appropriate, the use of one of the Food and Drug Administration—approved adhesion barriers. Further research is required to develop safe and effective anti-adhesion methods as well as better assessment tools for their efficacy.
Therapeutic benefits of budesonide in gastroenterology
Authors: O'Donnell Sarah , O'Morain Colm A.
Published: August 2010

Budesonide is a synthetic steroid of the glucocorticoid family with a high topical antiinflammatory activity. Enteric-coated formulations resist gastric-acid degradation, delivering active drug to the small intestine and proximal colon. Budesonide has a high first-pass metabolism with minimal systemic absorption. It is therefore felt to cause fewer side effects than traditional glucocorticosteroids and to be generally well tolerated. The aim of this paper is to examine the utility of this medication in frequently encountered gastrointestinal conditions: Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, microscopic colitis and eosinophilic oesophagitis. A Medline search was performed to find published original research and review articles relating to the use budesonide in common gastroenterological conditions. The results showed that budesonide is efficacious in the induction and short-term maintenance of Crohn’s disease. Budesonide is the best-documented treatment for microscopic colitis. It is well proven to be effective in the induction of remission in collagenous colitis but its use in lymphocytic colitis remains less well documented. In conclusion, budesonide is an effective glucocorticosteroid therapy for many chronic gastrointestinal diseases. In combination with its efficacy, the low incidence of serious side effects associated with this drug should keep it at the forefront in the therapeutic arsenal of any gastroenterologist.
Microstructural study in graphitised hypereutectoid cast and commercial steels
Authors: Rounaghi S. A. , Shayesteh P. , Kiani-Rashid A. R.
Published: August 2010

In the present paper, past research work with new and/or improved processes for willing graphitisation in steels is reviewed. Experiments were carried out to study the carbide dissociation in two different hypereutectoid steels (cast and commercial steels) during graphitisation process by annealing primary martensitic structures at 670°C. Graphite phase evolution during graphitisation treatment was investigated by light optical and scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray analyses. It has been reported with promising results that a uniform distribution of alloying elements is found around the graphite particles, which resulted in cast steel. Furthermore, graphite particles in the cast steel were observed to be larger and more spherical than that in commercial steel, which seems to be due to lower Mn/S ratio in cast steel composition.
Tissue transglutaminase contributes to the all-trans-retinoic acid–induced differentiation syndrome phenotype in the NB4 model of acute promyelocytic leukemia
Authors: Csomós Krisztián , Német István , Fésüs László , Balajthy Zoltán
Published: August 2010

Treatment of acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) with all-trans-retinoic acid (ATRA) results in terminal differentiation of leukemic cells toward neutrophil granulocytes. Administration of ATRA leads to massive changes in gene expression, including down-regulation of cell proliferation–related genes and induction of genes involved in immune function. One of the most induced genes in APL NB4 cells is transglutaminase 2 (TG2). RNA interference–mediated stable silencing of TG2 in NB4 cells (TG2-KD NB4) coupled with whole genome microarray analysis revealed that TG2 is involved in the expression of a large number of ATRA-regulated genes. The affected genes participate in granulocyte functions, and their silencing lead to reduced adhesive, migratory, and phagocytic capacity of neutrophils and less superoxide production. The expression of genes related to cell-cycle control also changed, suggesting that TG2 regulates myeloid cell differentiation. CC chemokines CCL2, CCL3, CCL22, CCL24, and cytokines IL1B and IL8 involved in the development of differentiation syndrome are expressed at significantly lower level in TG2-KD NB4 than in wild-type NB4 cells upon ATRA treatment. Based on our results, we propose that reduced expression of TG2 in differentiating APL cells may suppress effector functions of neutrophil granulocytes and attenuate the ATRA-induced inflammatory phenotype of differentiation syndrome.