bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
What lies beneath: Thinking about the qualities and essences of stone and wood in the chambered tomb architecture of Neolithic Britain and Ireland
Authors: Cummings Vicki
Published: February 2012

This article considers the interpretation of stone and wood in Neolithic chambered tomb architecture in Britain and Ireland. Against a broader theoretical agenda of both relational materialities and animistic ontologies, it is argued that the qualities and essences of stones dictated their choice and use in monuments. Essentially, it was the hidden natures of stones which gave them meaning, and as archaeologists we can explore this through understanding lithic sourcing, quarrying techniques and the movements of stones, as well as their final resting place within monuments. These ideas are explored through the life history of one monument, that of Blasthill in Kintyre. These ideas are then expanded out to include wood and provide a critique of the wood–stone dichotomy prevalent in current interpretations of Neolithic monumentality.
The Effects of Item Saliency and Question Design on Measurement Error in a Self-Administered Survey
Authors: Stern Michael J. , Smyth Jolene D. , Mendez Jeanette
Published: February 2012

Recent survey design research has shown that small changes in the structure and visual layout of questions can affect respondents’ answers, but the results are not always consistent across studies. One possible reason for some of the inconsistency may be differences in the item saliency of the questions used in the experiments. In this article, the authors examine how item saliency might influence visual design effects. The authors report the results of three experimental alterations in question format and visual design using data from a 2005 random sample mail survey of 1,315 households. The results suggest that the saliency of the questions has effects both independent of and in concert with the layout of the questions. The implications for survey design are discussed.
How Informants Answer Questions?
Authors: Grant Matthew A. , Rohr Lia N. , Grant J. Tobin
Published: February 2012

The Tourangeau–Rasinski model of the question–answer process can inform how the authors conduct qualitative interviews by improving reflexivity. The authors outline this model and show that it both complements the literature on best practices in qualitative methods and provides a new tool to inform reflexivity. The authors use examples from our interviews with elite athletes to show how the model can improve reflexivity and discuss the implications of this model for qualitative interviews.
Critical Co-Constructed Autoethnography
Authors: Cann Colette N. , DeMeulenaere Eric J.
Published: February 2012

In this article, the authors describe critical co-constructed autoethnography as a methodology steeped in critical theory, critical pedagogy and critical race theory. It provides a way for collaborating activist researchers to reflect on the tempo, uncertainty, and complexity of research relationships that cross boundaries into more personal spaces such as friendships. Further, critical co-constructed authoethnography creates spaces for collaborating researchers to work across differences.
The Global South
Authors: Dados Nour , Connell Raewyn
Published: February 2012

The phrase “Global South” marks a shift from a focus on development or cultural difference toward an emphasis on geopolitical power relations. Nour Dados and Raewyn Connell demystify and contextualize this term.
Banking on the Poor
Authors: Haase Dwight
Published: February 2012

Sociologist Dwight Haase explores how one man’s efforts to help his village neighbors evolved into a global corporate market—with unintended consequences. Haase provides insight into how the microfinance movement turned into an industry.
All Media Are Social
Authors: Childress C. Clayton
Published: February 2012

The terms “old media” and “social media” are distinctions that are commonly used but can cloud our understanding of the media’s sociability. The author argues that all media are social and explores the implications of such an understanding.
An Old Tool with New Promise
Authors: Lindner Andrew M.
Published: February 2012

Sociologist Andrew M. Lindner explores the increasing popularity of the research tool of content analysis and how innovation has given rise to new opportunities and new concerns.
The Library of Affecting Social Science
Authors: Gerber Alison , Revers Matthias
Published: February 2012

A “list” of social science texts that move us and continually captivate our minds and emotions.
Motor Learning Characterizes Habilitation of Children With Hemiplegic Cerebral Palsy
Authors: Krebs Hermano I. , Fasoli Susan E. , Dipietro Laura , Fragala-Pinkham Maria , Hughes Richard , Stein Joel , Hogan Neville
Published: February 2012

Background. This study tested in children with cerebral palsy (CP) whether motor habilitation resembles motor learning. Methods. Twelve children with hemiplegic CP ages 5 to 12 years with moderate to severe motor impairments underwent a 16-session robot-mediated planar therapy program to improve upper limb reach, with a focus on shoulder and elbow movements. Participants were trained to execute point-to-point movements (with robot assistance) with the affected arm and were evaluated (without robot assistance) in trained (point-to-point) and untrained (circle-drawing) conditions. Outcomes were measured at baseline, midpoint, immediately after the program, and 1 month postcompletion. Outcome measures were the Fugl-Meyer (FM), Quality of Upper Extremity Skills Test (QUEST), and Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS) scores; parent questionnaire; and robot-based kinematic metrics. To assess whether learning best characterizes motor habilitation in CP, the authors quantified ( a) improvement on trained tasks at completion of training (acquisition) and 1 month following completion (retention) and ( b) quantified generalization of improvement to untrained tasks. Results. After robotic intervention, the authors found significant gains in the FM, QUEST, and parent questionnaire. Robot-based evaluations demonstrated significant improvement in trained movements and that improvement was sustained at follow-up. Furthermore, children improved their performance in untrained movements indicating generalization. Conclusions. Motor habilitation in CP exhibits some traits of motor learning. Optimal treatment may not require an extensive repertoire of tasks but rather a select set to promote generalization.
Bare Life’s Bare Essentials: When All You’ve Got is Hope – The State of Exception in The Road, District 9 and Blindness
Authors: Bourke Greg
Published: February 2012

This article operationalizes the work of Giorgio Agamben, through the prism of popular culture and filmic studies. Drawing extensively upon the cinematic experiences of The Road, District 9 and Blindness, a critique is formulated of this pre-eminent scholar’s theory. Beginning with an analysis of the state of exception, Agamben’s chilling assertions are examined. The remainder of the article then discusses the three films, as they provide the perfect vehicle for challenging Agamben’s obsessions and contradictions. Although tied together by the common thread of the camp, the hidden matrix of modernity, each film occupies a distinct position along a spectrum of governmentality. Ultimately, what is exposed goes to the heart of the sensational, diabolical and disturbing world Agamben incarnates.
Osteopontin Deficiency Suppresses Tumor Necrosis Factor-α–Induced Apoptosis in Chondrocytes
Authors: Yumoto K. , Nifuji A. , Rittling S.R. , Tsuchiya Y. , Kon S. , Uede T. , Denhardt D.T. , Hemmi H. , Notomi T. , Hayata T. , Ezura Y. , Nakamoto T. , Noda M.
Published: February 2012

Objective:

Apoptosis of chondrocytes in articular cartilage has been observed in rheumatoid arthritis patients. However, molecules involved in such chondrocyte apoptosis in arthritic joints have not been fully understood. We previously observed that apoptosis of chondrocytes is enhanced in a murine arthritis model induced by injection with anti–type II collagen antibodies and lipopolysaccharide (mAbs/LPS), and osteopontin (OPN) deficiency suppresses chondrocyte apoptosis in this arthritis model in vivo. To understand how OPN deficiency renders resistance against chondrocyte apoptosis, we examined the cellular basis for this protection.

Design:

Chondrocytes were prepared from wild-type and OPN-deficient mouse ribs, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)–α–induced cell death was examined based on lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release assay and TUNEL assay.

Results:

TNF-α treatment induced LDH release in wild-type chondrocytes, while OPN deficiency suppressed such LDH release in the cultures of these cells. TNF-α–induced increase in the number of TUNEL-positive cells was observed in wild-type chondrocytes, while OPN deficiency in chondrocytes suppressed the TNF-α induction of TUNEL-positive cells. OPN deficiency suppressed TNF-α–induced increase in caspase-3 activity in chondrocytes in culture. Furthermore, OPN overexpression in chondrocytes enhanced TNF-α–induced apoptosis.

Conclusion:

These results indicated that the presence of OPN in chondrocytes is involved in the susceptibility of these cells to TNF-α–induced apoptosis.
Determination of a Differential Item Functioning Procedure Using the Hierarchical Generalized Linear Model
Authors: Acar Tülin
Published: February 2012

The aim of this research is to compare the result of the differential item functioning (DIF) determining with hierarchical generalized linear model (HGLM) technique and the results of the DIF determining with logistic regression (LR) and item response theory–likelihood ratio (IRT-LR) techniques on the test items. For this reason, first in this research, it is determined whether the students encounter DIF with HGLM, LR, and IRT-LR techniques according to socioeconomic status (SES), in the Turkish, Social Sciences, and Science subtest items of the Secondary School Institutions Examination. When inspecting the correlations among the techniques in terms of determining the items having DIF, it was discovered that there was significant correlation between the results of IRT-LR and LR techniques in all subtests; merely in Science subtest, the results of the correlation between HGLM and IRT-LR techniques were found significant. DIF applications can be made on test items with other DIF analysis techniques that were not taken to the scope of this research. The analysis results, which were determined by using the DIF techniques in different sample sizes, can be compared.
First principles calculation on thermal stability of metastable precipitates in Mg–Gd binary alloys
Authors: Meng X Y , Wen X H , Ren Y P , Qin G W
Published: February 2012

First principles thermodynamic models based on the cluster expansion formalism, lattice dynamic calculations and quantum mechanical total energy calculations are employed to compute the thermal stability of metastable hardening precipitations in hcp structure α-Mg–Gd binary alloys. It shows that vibrational entropy reverses the energetic preference and plays a critical role in hardening precipitation at different aging temperatures in Mg–Gd binary alloys. In addition to energetics, the analysis of bonding charge density reveals that the metastable β′ phase is responsible for the high strength during subsequent isothermal treatment. Our results are found to be in good agreement with experimental measurements and helpful in clarifying the metastable precipitation sequence in Mg–Gd binary alloys.
Diagnostic accuracy of the aspartate aminotransferase-to-platelet ratio index for the prediction of hepatitis B-related fibrosis: a leading meta-analysis
Authors: Jin Wenwen , Lin Zhonghua , Xin Yongning , Jiang Xiangjun , Dong Quanjiang , Xuan Shiying
Published: February 2012

Background

The aspartate aminotransferase-to-platelet ratio index (APRI), a tool with limited expense and widespread availability, is a promising noninvasive alternative to liver biopsy for detecting hepatic fibrosis. The objective of this study was to systematically review the performance of the APRI in predicting significant fibrosis and cirrhosis in hepatitis B-related fibrosis.

Methods

Areas under summary receiver operating characteristic curves (AUROC), sensitivity and specificity were used to examine the accuracy of the APRI for the diagnosis of hepatitis B-related significant fibrosis and cirrhosis. Heterogeneity was explored using meta-regression.

Results

Nine studies were included in this meta-analysis (n = 1,798). Prevalence of significant fibrosis and cirrhosis were 53.1% and 13.5%, respectively. The summary AUCs of the APRI for significant fibrosis and cirrhosis were 0.79 and 0.75, respectively. For significant fibrosis, an APRI threshold of 0.5 was 84% sensitive and 41% specific. At the cutoff of 1.5, the summary sensitivity and specificity were 49% and 84%, respectively. For cirrhosis, an APRI threshold of 1.0-1.5 was 54% sensitive and 78% specific. At the cutoff of 2.0, the summary sensitivity and specificity were 28% and 87%, respectively. Meta-regression analysis indicated that the APRI accuracy for both significant fibrosis and cirrhosis was affected by histological classification systems, but not influenced by the interval between Biopsy & APRI or blind biopsy.

Conclusion

Our meta-analysis suggests that APRI show limited value in identifying hepatitis B-related significant fibrosis and cirrhosis.
Beta blocker use in subjects with type 2 diabetes mellitus and systolic heart failure does not worsen glycaemic control
Authors: Wai Bryan , Kearney Leighton G , Hare David L , Ord Michelle , Burrell Louise M , Srivastava Piyush M
Published: February 2012

Background

The prognostic benefits of beta-blockers (BB) in patients with systolic heart failure (SHF) are known but despite this, in patients with diabetes they are underutilized. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of beta-blockers (BB) on glycaemic control in patients with Type 2 Diabetes (T2DM) and systolic heart failure (SHF) stratified to beta-1 selective (Bisoprolol) vs. nonselective BB (Carvedilol).

Methods

This observational, cohort study was conducted in patients with T2DM and SHF attending an Australian tertiary teaching hospital's heart failure services. The primary endpoint was glycaemic control measured by glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c) at initiation and top dose of BB. Secondary endpoints included microalbuminuria, changes in lipid profile and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR).

Results

125 patients were assessed. Both groups were well matched for gender, NYHA class and use of guideline validated heart failure and diabetic medications. The mean treatment duration was 1.9 ± 1.1 years with carvedilol and 1.4 ± 1.0 years with bisoprolol (p = ns). The carvedilol group achieved a reduction in HbA1c (7.8 ± 0.21% to 7.3 ± 0.17%, p = 0.02) whereas the bisoprolol group showed no change in HbA1c (7.0 ± 0.20% to 6.9 ± 0.23%, p = 0.92). There was no significant difference in the change in HbA1c from baseline to peak BB dose in the carvedilol group compared to the bisoprolol group. There was a similar deterioration in eGFR, but no significant changes in lipid profile or microalbuminuria in both groups (p = ns).

Conclusion

BB use did not worsen glycaemic control, lipid profile or albuminuria status in subjects with SHF and T2DM. Carvedilol significantly improved glycemic control in subjects with SHF and T2DM and this improvement was non significantly better than that obtained with bisoprolol. BB's should not be withheld from patients with T2DM and SHF.
Human stem cell neuronal differentiation on silk-carbon nanotube composite
Authors: Chen Chi-Shuo , Soni Sushant , Le Catherine , Biasca Matthew , Farr Erik , Chen Eric Y-T , Chin Wei-Chun
Published: February 2012

Human embryonic stem cells [hESCs] are able to differentiate into specific lineages corresponding to regulated spatial and temporal signals. This unique attribute holds great promise for regenerative medicine and cell-based therapy for many human diseases such as spinal cord injury [SCI] and multiple sclerosis [MS]. Carbon nanotubes [CNTs] have been successfully used to promote neuronal differentiation, and silk has been widely applied in tissue engineering. This study aims to build silk-CNT composite scaffolds for improved neuron differentiation efficiency from hESCs.

Two neuronal markers (β-III tubulin and nestin) were utilized to determine the hESC neuronal lineage differentiation. In addition, axonal lengths were measured to evaluate the progress of neuronal development. The results demonstrated that cells on silk-CNT scaffolds have a higher β-III tubulin and nestin expression, suggesting augmented neuronal differentiation. In addition, longer axons with higher density were found to associate with silk-CNT scaffolds.

Our silk-CNT-based composite scaffolds can promote neuronal differentiation of hESCs. The silk-CNT composite scaffolds developed here can serve as efficient supporting matrices for stem cell-derived neuronal transplants, offering a promising opportunity for nerve repair treatments for SCI and MS patients.
Effect of self-assembled InAs islands on the interfacial roughness of optical-switched resonant tunneling diode
Authors: Tian Haitao , Wang Lu , Shi Zhenwu , Gao Huaiju , Zhang Shuhui , Wang Wenxin , Chen Hong
Published: February 2012

Embedding a quantum dot [QD] layer between the double barriers of resonant tunneling diode [RTD] is proved to be an effective method to increase the sensitivity of QD-RTD single-photon detector. However, the interfacial flatness of this device would be worsened due to the introduction of quantum dots. In this paper, we demonstrate that the interfacial quality of this device can be optimized through increasing the growth temperature of AlAs up barrier. The glancing incidence X-ray reflectivity and the high-resolution transmission electron microscopy measurements show that the interfacial smoothness has been greatly improved, and the photo-luminescence test indicated that the InAs QDs were maintained at the same time. The smoother interface was attributed to the evaporation of segregated indium atoms at InGaAs surface layer.

PACS

73.40.GK, 73.23._b, 73.21.La, 74.62.Dh
Effects of human papillomavirus (HPV) type 16 oncoproteins on the expression of involucrin in human keratinocytes
Authors: Gyöngyösi Eszter , Szalmás Anita , Ferenczi Annamária , Kónya József , Gergely Lajos , Veress György
Published: February 2012

Background

The human papillomavirus (HPV) life cycle is closely linked to keratinocyte differentiation. Oncogenic HPV infection has been shown to hamper the normal differentiation of keratinocytes; however, the underlying mechanisms responsible for this phenomenon are yet to be clarified. Here, we aimed to study the effects of HPV16 E6 and E7 oncogenes on the expression of involucrin (IVL), an established marker of keratinocyte differentiation, in human foreskin keratinocyte (HFK) cells.

Results

The differentiation of HFK cells by serum and high calcium significantly increased both the mRNA and the protein levels of IVL. The E6 and E7 oncoproteins of HPV16 together caused strong down-regulation of IVL mRNA and protein both in proliferating and in differentiating HFK cells. To study the effects of HPV oncogenes on the IVL promoter, we made transient transfection assays and luciferase tests and found that HPV 16 E6 but not E7 repressed IVL promoter activity in proliferating HFK cells. The inhibitory effect of HPV 16 E6 on the human IVL promoter could be localised to the proximal regulatory region (PRR) of the gene.

Conclusions

These results suggest that the down-regulation of IVL promoter activity by HPV 16 E6 significantly contribute to the inhibition of endogenous IVL expression by the HPV 16 oncoproteins. In contrast, the down-regulation of endogenous IVL expression by HPV16 E7 is probably not caused by a direct and specific effect of E7 on the IVL promoter.
Interleukin-1β and transforming growth factor-β cooperate to induce neurosphere formation and increase tumorigenicity of adherent LN-229 glioma cells
Authors: Wang Lei , Liu Ziyan , Balivada Sivasai , Shrestha Tej , Bossmann Stefan , Pyle Marla , Pappan Loretta , Shi Jishu , Troyer Deryl
Published: February 2012

Introduction

Glioma stem cells (GSCs) have the property of self-renewal and appear to be a driving force for the initiation and recurrence of gliomas. We recently found that the human tumorigenic LN-229 glioma cell line failed to form neurospheres in serum-free conditions and generated mostly small tumors in vivo, suggesting that either LN-229 GSCs are not active in these conditions or GSCs are absent in the LN-229 cell line.

Methods

Using self-renewal assay, soft-agar colony assay, cell proliferation assay, invasion assay, real time PCR analysis, ELISA and in vivo tumorigenic assay, we investigated the effects of interleukin (IL)-1β and transforming growth factor (TGF)-β on the development of GSCs from LN-229 cells.

Results

Here, we demonstrate that the combination of IL-1β and TGF-β can induce LN-229 cells to form neurospheres in serum-free medium. IL-1β/TGF-β-induced neurospheres display up-regulated expression of stemness factor genes (nestin, Bmi-1, Notch-2 and LIF), and increased invasiveness, drug resistance and tumor growth in vivo: hallmarks of GSCs. These results indicate that IL-1β and TGF-β cooperate to induce a GSC phenotype in the LN-229 cell line. Induction of nestin, LIF and Notch-2 by IL-1β/TGF-β can be reverted after cytokine withdrawal. Remarkably, however, up-regulated Bmi-1 levels remained unchanged after cytokine withdrawal; and the cytokine-withdrawn cells maintained strong clonogenicity, suggesting that Bmi-1 may play a crucial role in tumorigenesis.

Conclusions

Our finding indicates that glioma cells without self-renewal capability in standard conditions could also contribute to glioma malignancy when cytokines, such as IL-1β and TGF-β, are present in the tumor environment. Targeting GSC-promoting cytokines that are highly expressed in glioblastomas may contribute to the development of more effective glioma therapies.
Phase III Trial Evaluating Weekly Paclitaxel Versus Docetaxel in Combination With Capecitabine in Operable Breast Cancer
Authors: Kelly Catherine M. , Green Marjorie C. , Broglio Kristine , Thomas Eva S. , Brewster Abenaa M. , Valero Vicente , Ibrahim Nuhad K. , Gonzalez-Angulo Ana M. , Booser Daniel J. , Walters Ronald S. , Hunt Kelly K. , Hortobagyi Gabriel N. , Buzdar Aman U.
Published: February 2012

Purpose

We investigated whether capecitabine and docetaxel followed by fluorouracil, epirubicin, and cyclophosphamide (FEC) or weekly paclitaxel (WP) followed by FEC would improve relapse-free survival (RFS) in operable breast cancer.

Patients and Methods

In this single-institution study, patients with clinical stages I to IIIC breast cancer were randomly assigned on a 1:1 basis to WP 80 mg/m2 for 12 weeks followed by fluorouracil 500 mg/m2, epirubicin 100 mg/m2, and cyclophosphamide 500 mg/m2 (FEC-100) every 3 weeks for four cycles or docetaxel 75 mg/m2 on day 1 and capecitabine (XT) 1,500 mg/m2 on days 1 through 14 every 3 weeks for four cycles followed by FEC for four cycles and stratified by timing of chemotherapy (preoperative v adjuvant). Accrual was stopped short of 930 patients on the basis of a Bayesian predictive calculation that additional accrual would be unlikely to change the qualitative comparison of the two regimens.

Results

After enrollment of 601 patients and a median follow-up of 50 months, we observed no improvement in RFS between XT (87.5%; 95% CI, 82.7% to 91.1%) and WP (90.7%; 95% CI, 86.4% to 93.7%; P = .51). In the preoperative group, the pathologic complete response rate was 19.8% and 16.4% in the XT and WP arms, respectively (P = .45). Rates of breast-conserving surgery were similar between the two groups (P = .48). The XT arm had a significantly higher incidence of stomatitis (P < .001), hand-foot syndrome (P < .001), and neutropenic infection (P < .001).

Conclusion

There was no difference in efficacy between WP and XT as used in this randomized phase III trial. XT was associated with higher GI, skin, and neutropenic-related toxicities.
Rapsyn mediates subsynaptic anchoring of PKA type I and stabilisation of acetylcholine receptor in vivo
Authors: Choi Kyeong-Rok , Berrera Marco , Reischl Markus , Strack Siegfried , Albrizio Marina , Röder Ira V. , Wagner Anika , Petersen Yvonne , Hafner Mathias , Zaccolo Manuela , Rudolf Rüdiger
Published: February 2012

The stabilisation of acetylcholine receptors (AChRs) at the neuromuscular junction depends on muscle activity and the cooperative action of myosin Va and protein kinase A (PKA) type I. To execute its function, PKA has to be present in a subsynaptic microdomain where it is enriched by anchoring proteins. Here, we show that the AChR-associated protein, rapsyn, interacts with PKA type I in C2C12 and T-REx293 cells as well as in live mouse muscle beneath the neuromuscular junction. Molecular modelling, immunoprecipitation and bimolecular fluorescence complementation approaches identify an α-helical stretch of rapsyn to be crucial for binding to the dimerisation and docking domain of PKA type I. When expressed in live mouse muscle, a peptide encompassing the rapsyn α-helical sequence efficiently delocalises PKA type I from the neuromuscular junction. The same peptide, as well as a rapsyn construct lacking the α-helical domain, induces severe alteration of acetylcholine receptor turnover as well as fragmentation of synapses. This shows that rapsyn anchors PKA type I in close proximity to the postsynaptic membrane and suggests that this function is essential for synapse maintenance.
An Exact Algorithm for the Multitrip Vehicle Routing Problem
Authors: Mingozzi Aristide , Roberti Roberto , Toth Paolo
Published: February 2012

The multitrip vehicle routing problem (MTVRP) is a variant of the capacitated vehicle routing problem where each vehicle can perform a subset of routes, called a vehicle schedule, subject to maximum driving time constraints. Despite its practical importance, the MTVRP has received little attention in the literature. Few heuristics have been proposed, and only an exact algorithm has been presented for a variant of the MTVRP with customer time window constraints and unlimited driving time for each vehicle. We describe two set-partitioning-like formulations of the MTVRP. The first formulation requires the generation of all feasible routes, whereas the second formulation is based on the generation of all feasible schedules. We study valid lower bounds, based on the linear relaxations of both formulations enforced with valid inequalities, that are embedded into an exact solution method. The computational results show that the proposed exact algorithm can solve MTVRP instances taken from the literature, with up to 120 customers.
Disentangling Preferences and Learning in Brand Choice Models
Authors: Shin Sangwoo , Misra Sanjog , Horsky Dan
Published: February 2012

In recent years there has been a growing stream of literature in marketing and economics that models consumers as Bayesian learners. Such learning behavior is often embedded within a discrete choice framework that is then calibrated on scanner panel data. At the same time, it is now accepted wisdom that disentangling preference heterogeneity and state dependence is critical in any attempt to understand either construct. We posit that this confounding between state dependence and heterogeneity often carries through to Bayesian learning models. That is, the failure to adequately account for preference heterogeneity may result in over- or underestimation of the learning process because this heterogeneity is also reflected in the initial conditions. Using a unique data set that contains stated preferences (survey) and actual purchase data (scanner panel) for the same group of consumers, we attempt to untangle the effects of preference heterogeneity and state dependence, where the latter arises from Bayesian learning. Our results are striking and suggest that measured brand beliefs can predict choices quite well and, moreover, that in the absence of such measured preference information, the Bayesian learning behavior for consumer packaged goods is vastly overstated. The inclusion of preference information significantly reduces evidence for aggregate-level learning and substantially changes the nature of individual-level learning. Using individual-level outcomes, we illustrate why the lack of preference information leads to faulty inferences.
Stabilization of GABAAReceptors at Endocytic Zones Is Mediated by an AP2 Binding Motif within the GABAAReceptor β3 Subunit
Authors: Smith Katharine R. , Muir James , Rao Yijian , Browarski Marietta , Gruenig Marielle C. , Sheehan David F. , Haucke Volker , Kittler Josef T.
Published: February 2012

The strength of synaptic inhibition can be controlled by the stability and endocytosis of surface and synaptic GABAAreceptors (GABAARs), but the surface receptor dynamics that underpin GABAAR recruitment to dendritic endocytic zones (EZs) have not been investigated. Stabilization of GABAARs at EZs is likely to be regulated by receptor interactions with the clathrin-adaptor AP2, but the molecular determinants of these associations remain poorly understood. Moreover, although surface GABAAR downmodulation plays a key role in pathological disinhibition in conditions such as ischemia and epilepsy, whether this occurs in an AP2-dependent manner also remains unclear. Here we report the characterization of a novel motif containing three arginine residues (405RRR407) within the GABAAR β3-subunit intracellular domain (ICD), responsible for the interaction with AP2 and GABAAR internalization. When this motif is disrupted, binding to AP2 is abolishedin vitroand in rat brain. Using single-particle tracking, we reveal that surface β3-subunit-containing GABAARs exhibit highly confined behavior at EZs, which is dependent on AP2 interactions via this motif. Reduced stabilization of mutant GABAARs at EZs correlates with their reduced endocytosis and increased steady-state levels at synapses. By imaging wild-type or mutant super-ecliptic pHluorin-tagged GABAARs in neurons, we also show that, under conditions of oxygen–glucose deprivation to mimic cerebral ischemia, GABAARs are depleted from synapses in dendrites, depending on the405RRR407motif. Thus, AP2 binding to an RRR motif in the GABAAR β3-subunit ICD regulates GABAAR residency time at EZs, steady-state synaptic receptor levels, and pathological loss of GABAARs from synapses during simulated ischemia.
Restoration of Synaptic Plasticity and Learning in Young and Aged NCAM-Deficient Mice by Enhancing Neurotransmission Mediated by GluN2A-Containing NMDA Receptors
Authors: Kochlamazashvili Gaga , Bukalo Olena , Senkov Oleg , Salmen Benedikt , Gerardy-Schahn Rita , Engel Andreas K. , Schachner Melitta , Dityatev Alexander
Published: February 2012

Neural cell adhesion molecule (NCAM) is the predominant carrier of the unusual glycan polysialic acid (PSA). Deficits in PSA and/or NCAM expression cause impairments in hippocampal long-term potentiation and depression (LTP and LTD) and are associated with schizophrenia and aging. In this study, we show that impaired LTP in adult NCAM-deficient (NCAM−/−) mice is restored by increasing the activity of the NMDA subtype of glutamate receptor (GluN) through either reducing the extracellular Mg2+concentration or applyingd-cycloserine (DCS), a partial agonist of the GluN glycine binding site. Pharmacological inhibition of the GluN2A subtype reduced LTP to the same level inNCAM−/−and wild-type (NCAM+/+) littermate mice and abolished the rescue by DCS inNCAM−/−mice, suggesting that the effects of DCS are mainly mediated by GluN2A. The insufficient contribution of GluN to LTD inNCAM−/−mice was also compensated for by DCS. Furthermore, impaired contextual and cued fear conditioning levels were restored inNCAM−/−mice by administration of DCS before conditioning. In 12-month-oldNCAM−/−, but notNCAM+/+mice, there was a decline in LTP compared with 3-month-old mice that could be rescued by DCS. In 24-month-old mice of both genotypes, there was a reduction in LTP that could be fully restored by DCS inNCAM+/+mice but only partially restored inNCAM−/−mice. Thus, several deficiencies ofNCAM−/−mice can be ameliorated by enhancing GluN2A-mediated neurotransmission with DCS.
Dysgenetic male pseudohermaphroditism
Authors: Ságodi László , Jakab Janka , Kiss Ákos , Ladányi Erzsébet , Balogh Erzsébet , Ujfalusi Anikó , Papp Judit , Megyeri Tímea , Kovács Judit
Published: February 2012

The authors report a case of a dysgenetic male pseudohermaphroditism with a 45,X/46,XY karyotype in a mosaic form, which was diagnosed in an infant. The one-week-old infant was evaluated because of proximal hypospadias and retention of the right testis. The results of hormonal tests were the followings: serum FSH 5.2 mU/ml; LH: 2.0 mU/ml; testosterone: 144.3 ng/dl; androstendione: 0.42 µg/l; 17-hydroxyprogesterone: 1.12 ng/ml. Chromosomal analysis revealed 45,X/46,XY karyotype. Fluorescent in vitro hybridization showed that 51% of the lymphocytes had the Y chromosome and the SRY gene. Analysis of the SRY showed no deletion in the AZF a,b,c regions. Pelvic magnetic resonance imaging indicated the presence of vagina between the bladder and the rectum, and it showed a mass measuring 15×8 mm in the right inguinal canal as well as an oval gonadal mass with a size of 13×7 mm in the left scrotum. During surgical intervention, performed at the age of one, the right gonad was removed and biopsy of the scrotal testis was performed. Histological examination revealed dysgenetic testis in both sides. The authors emphasize the necessity of cytogenetic and endocrinological investigations of newborns with perineoscrotal hypospadia and bilateral or unilateral maldescent testes immediately after birth. Surgical removal of the dysgenetic testicular tissue located in the abdominal cavity and its histological evaluation provides separation of mixed gonadal dysgenesis, dysgenetic male pseudohermaphroditism, bilateral gonadal dysgenesis and ovotestis in the 45,X/46,XY mosaic cases. An accurate evaluation is necessary for a correct sex assignment and for surgical intervention to prevent neoplastic degeneration of the dysgenetic gonad. Orv. Hetil., 2012, 153, 303–307.
Principles of the EOS™ X-ray machine and its use in daily orthopedic practice
Authors: Illés Tamás , Somoskeöy Szabolcs
Published: February 2012

The EOS™ X-ray machine, based on a Nobel prize-winning invention in Physics in the field of particle detection, is capable of simultaneously capturing biplanar X-ray images by slot scanning of the whole body in an upright, physiological load-bearing position, using ultra low radiation doses. The simultaneous capture of spatially calibrated anterioposterior and lateral images allows the performance of a three-dimensional (3D) surface reconstruction of the skeletal system by a special software. Parts of the skeletal system in X-ray images and 3D-reconstructed models appear in true 1:1 scale for size and volume, thus spinal and vertebral parameters, lower limb axis lengths and angles, as well as any relevant clinical parameters in orthopedic practice could be very precisely measured and calculated. Visualization of 3D reconstructed models in various views by the sterEOS 3D software enables the presentation of top view images, through which one can analyze the rotational conditions of lower limbs, joints and spine deformities in horizontal plane and this provides revolutionary novel possibilities in orthopedic surgery, especially in spine surgery. Orv. Hetil., 2012, 153, 289–295.
p-Type Doping of Small-Molecule Organic Semiconductors using Organic Vapor Phase Deposition (OVPD)
Authors: Brast M. , Lindla F. , Boesing M. , Bertram D. , Keiper D. , Heuken M. , Kalisch H. , Vescan A.
Published: February 2012

In the past few years, organic vapor phase deposition (OVPD) has been demonstrated to be an effective deposition method for high-performance monochrome and white organic light emitting diodes (OLEDs) [1-4]. OVPD provides good material utilization efficiency and large achievable deposition rates.

An application of p-type doping is the improvement of hole injection either from the anode contact or from a charge generation layer in stacked OLEDs [5]. Nevertheless, no reports on p-type doping using OVPD can be found in literature, in part due to the thermal instability and high chemical sensitivity of organic dopants.

In this work, p-type doping using an AIXTRON Gen-1 OVPD tool with two different show-erhead designs is examined. NDP-2 (NOVALED) and N,N‘-diphenyl-N,N‘-bis(1-naphthylphenyl)-1,1‘-biphenyl-4,4‘-diamine (NPB) were used as p-type dopant (guest) and hole-conducting host, respectively. p-Type doped hole-only devices were fabricated and compared with undoped ones.

Two different showerhead designs (made either of aluminum or stainless steel) were investi-gated with respect to OLED performance to determine possible side reactions.

Highly efficient monochrome red OLEDs including a p-type doped hole transport layer were demonstrated exhibiting a current efficiency of 31 cd/A, a power efficiency of 26 lm/W and a driving voltage of 3.7 V without improved light outcoupling (all values at 1000 cd/m2).
Matrix Modulus Affects Invasion Rate of Tumor Cells through Synthetic Hydrogels
Authors: Jabbari Esmaiel
Published: February 2012

Understanding factors affecting cell invasion influences the design of engineered constructs for tissue regeneration. The objective of this work was to investigate the effect of matrix stiffness on invasion of tumor cells through a synthetic hydrogel with well-defined properties. A novel star acrylate-functionalized polyethylene glycol-co-lactide (SPELA) macromer was synthesized to produce hydrogels with well-defined water content, elastic modulus, degree of crosslinking and hydrophilicity. The hydrogel was formed by photo-polymerization of the macromer with or without integrin-binding cell adhesive RGD peptide. Cell invasion experiments were carried out in a transwell with SPELA hydrogel as the invading matrix and 4T1 mouse breast cancer cells. The invading cells on the lower membrane side were counted with an inverted fluorescent microscope. The concentration of SPELA macromer ranged from 10-25 wt% and that of RGD ranged from 1x10-4 to 1x10-2 M. The shear modulus of the hydrogel varied from 200 Pa to 25 kPa as the SPELA concentration increased from 10 to 25 wt%. Cell invasion slightly increased with increasing RGD concentration. However, RGD concentration >1% resulted in a significant decrease in cell migration. As the matrix stiffness increased from 0.15 to 0.4, 3, 5, 6, 14, and 25 kPa the invasion rate decreased from 18.0 to 5.5, 6, 5.7, 5.2, 1.5, and 1.0 cells/mm2/h, respectively. There was a sharp decrease in invasion rate for matrix stiffness greater than 10 kPa. Results demonstrate that matrix stiffness plays a major role in invasion of tumor cell through a gelatinous matrix.
Growth, Reproductive Potential, and Control Strategies for Deeproot Sedge (Cyperus entrerianus)
Authors: Bryson Charles T. , Carter Richard
Published: February 2012

Greenhouse, growth chamber, and field studies were conducted at Stoneville, MS, in 2000 to 2008, to determine the growth rate, reproductive and overwintering potential, and control of deeproot sedge. In growth chamber studies, deeproot sedge growth rate (ht) and plant dry wt were greatest at 25/35 C (night/day temperatures), when compared with regimes of 5/15, 15/25, and 20/30 C. Based on the average number of scales (fruiting sites per spikelet), spikelets per inflorescence, and culms per plant, deeproot sedge reproductive potential was 2.6-, 6.2-, and 17.4-fold greater than Surinam, green, and knob sedges, respectively. A single deeproot sedge plant produced an average of 85,500 achenes annually. Mowing at 15-cm ht weekly prevented achene production but did not kill deeproot sedge plants. The average number of inflorescences produced on mowed plants was 1.2 to 4 times greater in 2- and 1-yr-old deeproot sedge plants, respectively, when compared with unmowed plants. Mature deeproot sedge achenes were produced between monthly mowings. In a 3-yr field study, glyphosate, glufosinate, hexazinone, and MSMA provided more than 85% control of deeproot sedge, and above the soil, live deeproot sedge plant dry wt was reduced by 50, 64, 68, 72, 86, and 93% by dicamba, halosulfuron-methyl, MSMA, hexazinone, glufosinate, and glyphosate, respectively. All (100%) deeproot sedge plants 1 yr old or older overwintered at Stoneville, MS, at 33°N latitude.
Derivative spectrophotometric determination of acetamiprid in the presence of 6-chloronicotinic acid
Authors: Guzsvány Valéria , Lazic Sanja , Vidakovic Natasa , Papp Zsigmond
Published: February 2012

A simple first-order derivative spectrophotometric method was developed for
the simultaneous determination of acetamiprid and 6-chloronicotinic acid
(6-CNA) at pH 7.0. By using the zero-crossing approach, acetamiprid was
determined at 269.0 nm and 6-CNA at 216.0 nm with the detection limits of
7.19x10-7 and 8.25x10-7 mol dm-3, respectively and relative standard
deviations not exceeding 1.2% in the case of model systems.
Densification modeling of titanium alloy powder during hot isostatic pressing
Authors: Xue Y. , Lang L.H. , Bu G.L. , Li L.
Published: February 2012

Densification model of titanium alloy (Ti-6Al-4V) are investigated during hot
isostatic pressing (Hip). Experimental data was obtained at various pressures
and temperatures during hot isostatic pressing (Hip). Experimental data are
compared with the finite element calculations by using the hybrid model and
Abouaf model, respectively. The results show that the finite element
calculation results by the hybrid model are in agreement with the
experimental data for densification behaviour of the titanium alloy powder
under Hip; however, the finite element calculation results by using the
Abouaf model are over the experimental data. In addition, in order to
obtaining relative density distributions of porous body, the statistical
relationships during Poisson?s ratio, Rockwell hardness and the relative
density of porous body were formulated, the results show that the statistical
relationship between Poisson?s ratio and the relative density of porous body
is essential to construct such a constitutive model; the statistical
relationship between Rockwell hardness and the relative density of porous
body is essential to obtain relative density distributions of porous body.
Michael V Kalaphates — Romanos IV Diogenes: Textual parallels in the chronographia of Michael Psellos
Authors: Vratimos Antonios
Published: February 2012

The books five and seven of the Chronographia contain some striking parallels
between the two deposed and blinded emperors of the eleventh century,
Kalaphates and Diogenes. The aim of this article is to consider whether these
parallels are real historical facts or products of fabrication. Then, it will
move on to examine how the two emperors are treated by Psellos within a
context that takes into account the aspects of his political thought.
The last hesychast safe havens in late fourteenth- and fifteenth-century monasteries in the northern Balkans
Authors: Popovic Svetlana
Published: February 2012

At the end of the fourteenth century and through the first half of the
fifteenth century, during the rule of Prince Lazar and his son Despot Stefan
Lazarevic, a great number of hesychasts found their last safe havens in
Serbia. It is not widely known that many monasteries and anchoretic cells
were founded in the northeastern region of Serbia, in the mountainous area of
the Crnica River Gorge and further north in the Gornjak Ravine. The followers
of Gregory of Sinai founded these cells; they came from both Bulgaria and
Mount Athos and were known from written sources as Sinaites, albeit most had
never visited Sinai. My paper will focus on hesychasts in these regions. I
must inform the readers that in early 80s the monastery of Lesje was still
awaiting archaeological excavations. Since then, the complex has been
thoroughly rebuilt by the monks who unfortunately devastated the existing
medieval remnants. Therefore today the monastery?s architecture is not
authentic.
Evaluation of recipes for home-prepared diets for dogs and cats with chronic kidney disease
Authors: Larsen Jennifer A. , Parks Elizabeth M. , Heinze Cailin R. , Fascetti Andrea J.
Published: February 2012

Objective—To evaluate recipes of diets recommended for animals with chronic kidney disease (CKD), compare nutritional profiles for those recipes to requirements for adult dogs and cats, and assess their appropriateness for the management of CKD.

Design—Evaluation study.

Sample—Recipes of 67 home-prepared diets promoted for use in dogs (n = 39 recipes) and cats (28) with CKD.

Procedures—Recipes were analyzed with computer software to determine calories, macronutrient calorie distribution, and micronutrient concentrations and were assessed for appropriateness for the management of CKD.

Results—Assumptions were required for the analysis of every recipe, and no recipe met all National Research Council nutrient recommended allowances (RA) for adult animals. Compared with RAs, concentrations of crude protein or at least 1 amino acid were low in 30 of 39 (76.9%) canine recipes and 12 of 28 (42.9%) feline recipes. Choline was most commonly below the RA in both canine (37/39 [94.9%]) and feline (23/28 [82.1%]) recipes; selenium (34/39 [87.2%] canine and 9/28 [32.1 %] feline recipes), zinc (24/39 [61.5%] canine and 19/28 [67.9%] feline recipes), and calcium (22/39 [56.4%] canine and 7/28 [25.0%] feline recipes) concentrations were also frequently below recommendations. The median phosphorus concentration in canine and feline recipes was 0.58 and 0.69 g/1,000 kcal, respectively.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Many problems with nutritional adequacy were detected, and use of the recipes could result in highly variable and often inappropriate diets. Many recipes would not meet nutritional and clinical needs of individual patients and should be used cautiously for long-term feeding.
Characteristics of commercially manufactured and compounded protamine zinc insulin
Authors: Scott-Moncrieff J. Catharine R. , Moore George E. , Coe Jasmine , Lynn Randy C. , Gwin Wilson , Petzold Raymond
Published: February 2012

Objective—To evaluate and compare characteristics of a commercially manufactured protamine zinc insulin (PZI) product and PZI products obtained from various compounding pharmacies.

Design—Evaluation study.

Sample—112 vials of PZI (16 vials of the commercially manufactured product and 8 vials from each of 12 compounding pharmacies) purchased over an 8-month period.

Procedures—Validated methods were used to analyze 2 vials of each product at 4 time points. Appearance, endotoxin concentration, crystal size, insulin concentration in the supernatant, pH, total insulin and zinc concentrations, and species of insulin origin were evaluated.

Results—All 16 vials of commercially manufactured PZI met United States Pharmacopeia (USP) specifications. Of 96 vials of compounded PZI, 1 (1 %) contained a concentration of endotoxin > 32 endotoxin U/mL, 23 (24%) had concentrations of insulin in the supernatant > 1.0 U/mL, and 45 (47%) had pH values < 7.1 or > 7.4; all of these values were outside of specifications. Several vials of compounded PZI (52/96 [54%]) did not meet specifications for zinc concentration (0.06 to 0.1 mg/mL for 40 U of insulin/mL, 0.075 to 0.12 mg/mL for 50 U of insulin/mL, and 0.15 to 0.25 mg/mL for 100 U of insulin/mL), and total insulin concentration in 36 [38%] vials was < 90% of the labeled concentration.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Only 1 of 12 compounded PZI products met all USP specifications in all vials tested. Use of compounded PZI insulin products could potentially lead to serious problems with glycemic control in veterinary patients.