bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neuroendocrine regulatory peptide-2 regulates feeding behavior via the orexin system in the hypothalamus
Authors: Toshinai Koji , Yamaguchi Hideki , Kageyama Haruaki , Matsuo Takashi , Koshinaka Keiichi , Sasaki Kazuki , Shioda Seiji , Minamino Naoto , Nakazato Masamitsu
Published: June 2010

Neuroendocrine regulatory peptide (NERP)-1 and NERP-2 are derived from distinct regions of VGF, a neurosecretory protein. Vgf−/− mice exhibit dwarfism and hypermetabolic rates, suggesting that VGF or VGF-derived peptides play important roles in energy metabolism. Here, we examined the role of NERPs in the central regulation of feeding and energy homeostasis. We attempted to identify NERPs expressing neurons in rats by immunohistochemistry. We studied the effects of intracerebroventricular (icv) administration of NERP-2 on feeding, body temperature, oxygen consumption, and locomotor activity in rats and mice. Intracerebroventricular administration of NERP-2, but not NERP-1 or a form of NERP-2 bearing a COOH-terminal glycine extension, increased food intake in rats. We investigated the downstream signal of NERP-2 on the basis of studies of NERP-2-induced feeding with neutralization of orexins, neuropeptide Y, or agouti-related protein. NERP-2 expression localized to the lateral hypothalamus (LH) and the dorsomedial perifornical hypothalamus in rats, colocalizing with orexins that activate feeding behavior and arousal. NERP-2 administration induced Fos protein, a marker of neuronal activation, in the orexin-immunoreactive neurons. Vgf mRNA levels were upregulated in the rat LH upon food deprivation. Intracerebroventricular administration of NERP-2 also increased body temperature, oxygen consumption, and locomotor activity in rats. Treatment with anti-NERP-2 IgG decreased food intake. NERP-2-induced bioactivities could be abrogated by administration of anti-orexins IgG or orexin receptor antagonists. NERP-2 did not induce food intake or locomotor activity in orexin-deficient mice. Our findings indicate that hypothalamic NERP-2 plays a role in the control of food intake and energy homeostasis via the orexin pathway. Thus, VGF serves as a precursor of multiple bioactive peptides exerting a diverse set of neuroendocrine functions.
The Giant Protein Titin as an Integrator of Myocyte Signaling Pathways
Authors: Linke Wolfgang A. , Krüger Martina
Published: June 2010

The giant muscle protein titin, the “backbone” of the sarcomere, harbors a complex molecular spring whose stiffness is variably tuned in health and disease. Titin is increasingly recognized as a crucial integrator of diverse myocyte signaling pathways. The titin-associated signalosome includes hotspots of protein-protein interactions important for the regulation of protein quality-control mechanisms, hypertrophic gene activation, and mechanosensing.
Eicosanoids in the Innate Immune Response: TLR and Non-TLR Routes
Authors: Alvarez Yolanda , Valera Isela , Municio Cristina , Hugo Etzel , Padrón Francisco , Blanco Lydia , Rodríguez Mario , Fernández Nieves , Crespo Mariano Sánchez
Published: June 2010

The variable array of pattern receptor expression in different cells of the innate immune system explains the induction of distinct patterns of arachidonic acid (AA) metabolism. Peptidoglycan and mannan were strong stimuli in neutrophils, whereas the fungal extract zymosan was the most potent stimulus in monocyte-derived dendritic cells since it induced the production ofPGE2,PGD2, and several cytokines including a robust IL-10 response. Zymosan activatedκB-binding activity, but inhibition of NF-κB was associated with enhanced IL-10 production. In contrast, treatments acting on CREB (CRE binding protein), includingPGE2, showed a direct correlation between CREB activation and IL-10 production. Therefore, in dendritic cells zymosan inducesil10transcription by a CRE-dependent mechanism that involves autocrine secretion ofPGE2, thus unraveling a functional cooperation between eicosanoid production and cytokine production.
Effect of Root Coverage on Oral Health Impact Profile (G49): A Pilot Study
Authors: Hansmeier Ulrich , Eickholz Peter
Published: June 2010

Purpose. The aim of this prospective longitudinal clinical pilot study was the evaluation of the effect on the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP) and patient-centered results of the envelope technique for Connective Tissue Graft (CTG).Methods. Sixteen patients (11 females) 24 to 71 years of age () received CTG that had been harvested from the palate and grafted using the envelope technique. Prior to and 3 months after surgery, all patients were examined clinically, completed the OHIP-G49 questionnaire, and were asked to judge the results of surgery.Results. Mean baseline recession depth of  mm was reduced by  mm (). Root coverage amounted to %. In 5 of 16 defects complete root coverage was achieved. Pain at the donor site was more pronounced than at recipient site regarding prevalence (8/6; ), intensity ( [visual analogue scale]; ), and duration ( days; ). Baseline OHIP () was decreased by three months after surgery (). Thirteen patients (81%) would undergo CTG surgery for similar reasons again.Conclusions. Root coverage using CTG according to the envelope technique provided improvement of OHIP as early as 3 months after surgery. Over all, patients were reasonably satisfied with the surgical technique and its results.
Research on Ossicular Chain Mechanics Model
Authors: Yao Wen-juan , Zhou Hua-cong , Hu Bao-lin , Huang Xin-sheng , Li Xiao-qing
Published: June 2010

On account of the complex structure of the middle ear and that it is more difficult to carry out experiments to test the nature of the mechanical components, the relevant data is hard to obtain, which has become an obstacle restricting analysis of the middle ear mechanic. Based on spatial structure and mechanical properties of ossicular chain, the paper has established functional relationship between load and members displacement with elastic principles and variation principles, in order that experimental results will be reflected in mechanical model. In the process of solving equations, we use the experimental data of a known special point or the various components function of statistical regression method and then combine them with the time shift function, so that the analytical solution of the various components will be achieved. The correctness of equation derived in this paper is verified by comparing the experimental data. So the model has provided a convenient way to obtain date in the future research analysis.
Associations between the Cervical Vertebral Column and Craniofacial Morphology
Authors: Sonnesen L.
Published: June 2010

Aim. To summarize recent studies on morphological deviations of the cervical vertebral column and associations with craniofacial morphology and head posture in nonsyndromic patients and in patients with obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA).Design. In these recent studies, visual assessment of the cervical vertebral column and cephalometric analysis of the craniofacial skeleton were performed on profile radiographs of subjects with neutral occlusion, patients with severe skeletal malocclusions and patients with OSA. Material from human triploid foetuses and mouse embryos was analysed histologically.Results. Recent studies have documented associations between fusion of the cervical vertebral column and craniofacial morphology, including head posture in patients with severe skeletal malocclusions. Histological studies on prenatal material supported these findings.Conclusion. It is suggested that fusion of the cervical vertebral column is associated with development and function of the craniofacial morphology. This finding is expected to have importance for diagnostics and elucidation of aetiology and thereby for optimal treatment.
High Throughput T Epitope Mapping and Vaccine Development
Authors: Li Pira Giuseppina , Ivaldi Federico , Moretti Paolo , Manca Fabrizio
Published: June 2010

Mapping of antigenic peptide sequences from proteins of relevant pathogens recognized by T helper (Th) and by cytolytic T lymphocytes (CTL) is crucial for vaccine development. In fact, mapping of T-cell epitopes provides useful information for the design of peptide-based vaccines and of peptide libraries to monitor specific cellular immunity in protected individuals, patients and vaccinees. Nevertheless, epitope mapping is a challenging task. In fact, large panels of overlapping peptides need to be tested with lymphocytes to identify the sequences that induce a T-cell response. Since numerous peptide panels from antigenic proteins are to be screened, lymphocytes available from human subjects are a limiting factor. To overcome this limitation, high throughput (HTP) approaches based on miniaturization and automation of T-cell assays are needed. Here we consider the most recent applications of the HTP approach to T epitope mapping. The alternative or complementary use of in silico prediction and experimental epitope definition is discussed in the context of the recent literature. The currently used methods are described with special reference to the possibility of applying the HTP concept to make epitope mapping an easier procedure in terms of time, workload, reagents, cells and overall cost.
A Hybrid Method for a Countable Family of Multivalued Maps, Equilibrium Problems, and Variational Inequality Problems
Authors: Cholamjiak Watcharaporn , Suantai Suthep
Published: June 2010

We introduce a new monotone hybrid iterative scheme for
finding a common element of the set of common fixed points of a countable family of nonexpansive multivalued maps, the set of solutions of variational inequality problem, and the set of the solutions of the equilibrium problem in a Hilbert space. Strong convergence theorems of the purposed iteration are established.
Neuroretinitis Caused byBartonella henselae(Cat-Scratch Disease) in a 13-Year-Old Girl
Authors: Durá-Travé Teodoro , Yoldi-Petri Maria Eugenia , Gallinas-Victoriano Fidel , Lavilla-Oiz Ana , Bove-Guri Marta
Published: June 2010

Cat-scratch disease-related neuroretinitis is a relatively unusual pathology, with suspicious clinical epidemiological and serological diagnosis. We present a case of an adolescent suffering from unilateral neuroretinitis associated withBartonella henselaeinfection characterized by abrupt loss of vision, optic disc swelling, and macular star exudates with optimal response to antibiotic treatment.
Antenatal Steroid Therapy for Fetal Lung Maturation and the Subsequent Risk of Childhood Asthma: A Longitudinal Analysis
Authors: Pole Jason D. , Mustard Cameron A. , To Teresa , Beyene Joseph , Allen Alexander C.
Published: June 2010

This study was designed to test the hypothesis that fetal exposure to corticosteroids in the antenatal period is an independent risk factor for the development of asthma in early childhood with little or no effect in later childhood. A population-based cohort study of all pregnant women who resided in Nova Scotia, Canada, and gave birth to a singleton fetus between 1989 and 1998 was undertaken. After a priori specified exclusions, 80,448 infants were available for analysis. Using linked health care utilization records, incident asthma cases developed after 36 months of age were identified. Extended Cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate hazard ratios while controlling for confounders. Exposure to corticosteroids during pregnancy was associated with a risk of asthma in childhood between 3–5 years of age: adjusted hazard ratio of 1.19 (95% confidence interval: 1.03, 1.39), with no association noted after 5 years of age: adjusted hazard ratio for 5–7 years was 1.06 (95% confidence interval: 0.86, 1.30) and for 8 or greater years was 0.74 (95% confidence interval: 0.54, 1.03). Antenatal steroid therapy appears to be an independent risk factor for the development of asthma between 3 and 5 years of age.
Effect of Nonuniform Muscle Contraction on Sustainability and Frequency of Triggered Arrhythmias in Rat Cardiac Muscle
Authors: Miura Masahito , Nishio Taichi , Hattori Taiki , Murai Naomi , Stuyvers Bruno D. , Shindoh Chiyohiko , Boyden Penelope A.
Published: June 2010

Background—Arrhythmias are benign or lethal, depending on their sustainability and frequency. To determine why lethal arrhythmias are prone to occur in diseased hearts, usually characterized by nonuniform muscle contraction, we investigated the effect of nonuniformity on sustainability and frequency of triggered arrhythmias.

Methods and Results—Force, membrane potential, and intracellular Ca2+concentration ([Ca2+]i) were measured in 51 rat ventricular trabeculae. Nonuniform contraction was produced by exposing a restricted region of muscle to a jet of 20 mmol/L 2,3-butanedione monoxime (BDM) or 20 μmol/L blebbistatin. Sustained arrhythmias (>10 seconds) could be induced by stimulus trains for 7.5 seconds only with the BDM or blebbistatin jet (100 nmol/L isoproterenol, 1.0 mmol/L [Ca2+]o, 24°C). During sustained arrhythmias, Ca2+surges preceded synchronous increases in [Ca2+]i, whereas the stoppage of the BDM jet made the Ca2+surges unclear and arrested sustained arrhythmias (n=6). With 200 nmol/L isoproterenol, 2.5 mmol/L [Ca2+]o, and the BDM jet, lengthening or shortening of the muscle during sustained arrhythmias accelerated or decelerated their cycle in both the absence (n=10) and presence (n=10) of 100 μmol/L streptomycin, a stretch-activated channel blocker, respectively. The maximum rate of force relaxation correlated inversely with the change in cycle lengths (n=14;P<0.01). Sustained arrhythmias with the BDM jet were significantly accelerated by 30 μmol/L SCH00013, a Ca2+sensitizer of myofilaments (n=10).

Conclusion—These results suggest that nonuniformity of muscle contraction is an important determinant of the sustainability and frequency of triggered arrhythmias caused by the surge of Ca2+dissociated from myofilaments in cardiac muscle.
Long-Term Evaluation of the Risk of Recurrence After Cerebral Sinus-Venous Thrombosis
Authors: Martinelli Ida , Bucciarelli Paolo , Passamonti Serena M. , Battaglioli Tullia , Previtali Emanuele , Mannucci Pier Mannuccio
Published: June 2010

Background—The clinical course of cerebral sinus-venous thrombosis (CSVT) is largely unknown because prospective studies with a long follow-up and with the goal to assess thrombosis recurrence rate and predisposing factors for recurrence are lacking.

Methods and Results—One hundred forty-five patients with a first CSVT were followed up for a median of 6 years after discontinuation of anticoagulant treatment. End points were recurrent CSVT or other clinical manifestations of venous thromboembolism. CSVT recurred in 5 patients (3%) and other manifestations of venous thromboembolism (deep vein thrombosis of the lower limbs or pulmonary embolism) were seen in 10 additional patients (7%), for a recurrence rate of 2.03 per 100 person-years (95% confidence interval, 1.16 to 3.14) for all manifestations of venous thromboembolism and 0.53 per 100 person-years (95% confidence interval, 0.16 to 1.10) for CSVT. Nearly half of the recurrences occurred within the first year after discontinuation of anticoagulant therapy. Risk factors for recurrent venous thrombosis were male sex (adjusted hazard ratio, 9.66; 95% confidence interval, 2.86 to 32.7) and, for thromboses other than CSVT, severe thrombophilia resulting from antithrombin, protein C, protein S deficiency, anti-phospholipid antibodies, or combined abnormalities (adjusted hazard ratio, 4.71; 95% confidence interval, 1.34 to 16.5).

Conclusions—The risk of recurrent CSVT is low and is higher in the first year after discontinuation of anticoagulant treatment and among men. Mild thrombophilia abnormalities are not associated with recurrent CSVT, but severe thrombophilia entails an increased risk of deep vein thrombosis of the lower limbs or pulmonary embolism.
Brain Microglial Cytokines in Neurogenic Hypertension
Authors: Shi Peng , Diez-Freire Carlos , Jun Joo Yun , Qi Yanfei , Katovich Michael J. , Li Qiuhong , Sriramula Srinivas , Francis Joseph , Sumners Colin , Raizada Mohan K.
Published: June 2010

Accumulating evidence indicates a key role of inflammation in hypertension and cardiovascular disorders. However, the role of inflammatory processes in neurogenic hypertension remains to be determined. Thus, our objective in the present study was to test the hypothesis that activation of microglial cells and the generation of proinflammatory cytokines in the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) contribute to neurogenic hypertension. Intracerebroventricular infusion of minocycline, an anti-inflammatory antibiotic, caused a significant attenuation of mean arterial pressure, cardiac hypertrophy, and plasma norepinephrine induced by chronic angiotensin II infusion. This was associated with decreases in the numbers of activated microglia and mRNAs for interleukin (IL) 1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α, and an increase in the mRNA for IL-10 in the PVN. Overexpression of IL-10 induced by recombinant adenoassociated virus-mediated gene transfer in the PVN mimicked the antihypertensive effects of minocycline. Furthermore, acute application of a proinflammatory cytokine, IL-1β, into the left ventricle or the PVN in normal rats resulted in a significant increase in mean arterial pressure. Collectively, this indicates that angiotensin II induced hypertension involves activation of microglia and increases in proinflammatory cytokines in the PVN. These data have significant implications on the development of innovative therapeutic strategies for the control of neurogenic hypertension.
Examination of the Mixed Layer Deepening Process during Convection Using LES
Authors: Noh Yign , Goh Gahyun , Raasch Siegfried
Published: June 2010

Analysis of large-eddy simulation data of the ocean mixed layer under convection reveals that the contribution from wind stress decreases with time as a result of inertial oscillation in the extratropical ocean and that it leads to a rapid increase of the bulk and gradient Richardson number at the mixed layer depth. The criteria for the mixed layer deepening in the widely used mixed layer models, such as the Niiler–Kraus (NK) model, the Price–Weller–Pinkel (PWP) model, and the K-profile parameterization (KPP) model, are examined in view of these results, and its implication on the model predictability is discussed.
CloudSat as a Global Radar Calibrator
Authors: Protat A. , Bouniol D. , O’Connor E. J. , Klein Baltink H. , Verlinde J. , Widener K.
Published: June 2010

The calibration of the CloudSat spaceborne cloud radar has been thoroughly assessed using very accurate internal link budgets before launch, comparisons with predicted ocean surface backscatter at 94 GHz, direct comparisons with airborne cloud radars, and statistical comparisons with ground-based cloud radars at different locations of the world. It is believed that the calibration of CloudSat is accurate to within 0.5–1 dB. In the present paper it is shown that an approach similar to that used for the statistical comparisons with ground-based radars can now be adopted the other way around to calibrate other ground-based or airborne radars against CloudSat and/or to detect anomalies in long time series of ground-based radar measurements, provided that the calibration of CloudSat is followed up closely (which is the case). The power of using CloudSat as a global radar calibrator is demonstrated using the Atmospheric Radiation Measurement cloud radar data taken at Barrow, Alaska, the cloud radar data from the Cabauw site, Netherlands, and airborne Doppler cloud radar measurements taken along the CloudSat track in the Arctic by the Radar System Airborne (RASTA) cloud radar installed in the French ATR-42 aircraft for the first time. It is found that the Barrow radar data in 2008 are calibrated too high by 9.8 dB, while the Cabauw radar data in 2008 are calibrated too low by 8.0 dB. The calibration of the RASTA airborne cloud radar using direct comparisons with CloudSat agrees well with the expected gains and losses resulting from the change in configuration that required verification of the RASTA calibration.
Study on Unrecognized Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) by Ankle/Brachial Index and Arterial Comorbidity in Catania, Sicily, Italy
Authors: Santo Signorelli Salvatore , Anzaldi Massimiliano , Fiore Valerio , Catanzaro Stefano , Simili Massimo , Torrisi Benedetto , Neri Sergio
Published: June 2010

Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is under diagnosed and early diagnosis decreases consequences. We screened unrecognized PAD focusing on arterial co-morbidities. In the 3412 subjects, screened from 10 general practices in the city of Catania (Sicily, Italy), ankle brachial index (ABI) measurements were performed. An ABI ≤0.9 was considered as valid in diagnosing PAD. ABI value ≤0.9 was found in 2.3%, and a significant rate of carotid stenosis was also found Echocardiographic markers left ventricular diameter (LVD) >55 mm, interventricular septum (IVS) >11 mm, left ventricular diastolic volume (LVDV) was found > 100 ml), and ejection fraction (EF) was <50% were found with high frequency in those with ABI ≤0.9. Unrecognized PAD is lower compared with other findings but our prevalence resulted higher than other prevalence previously found by other study performed in Italy. Unrecognized PAD shows significant arterial co-morbidities and the ABI is a useful method to screen asymptomatic PAD.
Revascularization Versus Medical Therapy for Renal Artery Stenosis: Antihypertensive Drugs and Renal Outcome
Authors: Cianci Rosario , Martina Paola , Borghesi Francesca , di Donato Domenico , Polidori Lelio , Lai Silvia , Ascoli Giada , de Francesco Irene , Zaccaria Alvaro , Gigante Antonietta , Barbano Biagio
Published: June 2010

Endovascular procedures may play a role in renal artery stenosis (RAS) treatment in attempt to preserve renal function and improve hypertension control. We determined renal outcome and the incidence of restenosis in patients with RAS treated with renal percutaneous transluminal angioplasty and stenting (RPTAs) and medical therapy versus patients with RAS treated only with medical therapy. We performed an observational study based on 93 patients with RAS. In all, 53 patients underwent RPTAs in association with medical therapy and 40 patients were only treated pharmacologically. In patients receiving RPTAs, a better renal outcome, a decrease of restenosis rate, and systolic—diastolic blood pressure were associated with angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) + angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE-is) therapy. In patients treated with medical therapy alone, renal improvement was related to ARBs in association with BBs (β-blockers; P < .0001). This study suggests that medical therapy may exert beneficial effects in patients with RAS.
A Security Preface to 21st-Century Public Administration
Authors: Stever James A.
Published: June 2010

The use of lethal technologies by global terror networks has elevated domestic security policy to a central concern of 21st-century public administration. Twentieth-century public administration scholars, influenced by Progressivism, Pluralism, and Public Choice, led the field to believe that it could both develop and administer domestic security policy without a coherent state theory to guide this policy. This scission between security policy and state theory must be repaired. The relevance of the field to pressing 21st-century security questions as well as the security of the public depends on renewing this linkage.
CYP2D6genotype and smoking influence fluvoxamine steady-state concentration in Japanese psychiatric patients: lessons for genotype–phenotype association study design in translational pharmacogenetics
Authors: Suzuki Yutaro , Sugai Takuro , Fukui Naoki , Watanabe Junzo , Ono Shin , Inoue Yoshimasa , Ozdemir Vural , Someya Toshiyuki
Published: June 2010

The CYP2D6 enzyme is a capacity-limited high-affinity drug elimination pathway that metabolizes numerous psychiatric medicines. The capacity-limited nature of this enzyme suggests that drug dose may serve as an important factor that influence genotype–phenotype associations. However, dose dependency of CYP2D6 genotype contributions to drug elimination, and its interaction with environmental factors (e.g., smoking) did not receive adequate attention in translational study designs. Fluvoxamine is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor antidepressant. Fluvoxamine concentration is one of the factors previously linked to clinical remission in moderate to severe depression. We investigated the joint effect of smoking (an inducer of CYP1A2) and CYP2D6 genotype on interindividual variability in fluvoxamine steady-state concentration. Fluvoxamine concentration was measured in 87 patients treated with 50, 100, 150 or 200 mg/d. While CYP2D6 genotype significantly influenced fluvoxamine concentration in all four dose groups ( p < 0.05), the percentage variance explained ( R2) by CYP2D6 decreased as the dose of fluvoxamine increased. Smoking status (nonsmokers vs. smoking 20 or more cigarettes/d) significantly affected fluvoxamine concentration in the 50 mg/d group only ( p = 0.005). Together, CYP2D6 genotype and smoking status explained 23% of the variance in fluvoxamine concentration but only at the low 50 mg/d dose group. These findings contribute to evidence-based and personalized choice of fluvoxamine dose using smoking status and CYP2D6 genetic variation. Additionally, these data lend evidence for drug dose as an important variable in translational pharmacogenetic study design and pharmaceutical phenotype associations with capacity-limited drug metabolism pathways such as CYP2D6.
“Apples and Oranges Are Both Round”: Furthering the Discussion on the Flynn Effect
Authors: Ceci Stephen J. , Kanaya Tomoe
Published: June 2010

While the magnitude of the Flynn effect is well established (approximately 3 points a decade on the Wechsler scales), the causes behind it are still unknown and hotly debated. Kaufman argues that, because of the administrative and scoring changes that occurred with the introduction of the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children—Revised, Flynn’s interpretation of the effect is not appropriate. Although agreeing that these changes account for some aspects of rising IQ, this study questions the impact of these administrative/scoring changes to account for most of the impact, given the heavy documentation of the Flynn effect on multiple IQ tests and norms over time and around the world. The authors also add to the discussion led by Zhou, Zhu, and Weiss by stressing the importance of examining the role of individual differences within the Flynn effect to understand fully the exact nuances and cause(s) of it.
The Flynn Effect: So What?
Authors: Sternberg Robert J.
Published: June 2010

The Flynn effect probably has multiple causes, and the target essays in this issue have expanded the number of possible causes behind it. This essay deals primarily with a different question: How important is IQ in the current world and should it perhaps be understood also in conjunction with a consideration of some kind of ethical intelligence?
Looking Through Flynn’s Rose-Colored Scientific Spectacles
Authors: Kaufman Alan S.
Published: June 2010

In the first article of this special issue of the Journal of Psychoeducational Assessment, I critiqued Flynn’s theoretical explanation of the Flynn effect because he depended too heavily on an apparently huge generational gain on the WISC Similarities subtest; I claimed he was comparing apples with oranges because that subtest changed too much when the WISC was first revised. Four sets of esteemed researchers were invited to respond to my article and also to an article by Zhou, Zhu, and Weiss—Flynn, Sternberg, McGrew, and Ceci and Kanaya. Flynn disagrees strongly with my critique of his theory, a theory that posits striking generational shifts from concrete (utilitarian) thinking to a kind of fluid reasoning that Flynn nicknames “scientific spectacles.” In this final article of the special issue, I respond to Flynn’s claims, and also to the points made by the other invited respondents. In addition, I respond to the range of opinions expressed by the scholars who were invited to write an essay on whether or not IQs should be adjusted for the Flynn effect in capital punishment cases (Fletcher et al., Hagan et al., and Reynolds et al.). Ultimately, I disagree with Flynn’s explanation of the Flynn effect, but I agree with his position that IQs should be adjusted for the effect in death penalty cases.
The Informal Sector in India
Authors: Maiti Dibyendu , Sen Kunal
Published: June 2010

Is the informal sector in India a means of exploitation or a means of accumulation? One view takes the informal sector to be a site for primitive capital accumulation, with underpaid workers working in abysmal conditions. Another view takes the informal sector to be the venue for economic dynamism and entrepreneurial creativity. In this article, we evaluate these two views in relation to theories of the informal sector and empirical studies on India. We argue that both views have merit in the Indian context and accounts of the informal sector in India need to take into account the complexity and heterogeneity of production and labour relations that characterises the sector.
Productivity of Indian Informal Workers
Authors: Sinha Anushree
Published: June 2010

In a globalised world, recessions strike formal sectors more swiftly, which when adopting cost-cutting measures retrench regular workers with higher non-negotiable wages. An economywide computable general equilibrium (CGE) model with different labour market closures has been used to study the impact of such a recession on labour productivity. Results show that labour productivity is more adversely affected when regular wages are increasingly rigid. Because of such wage rigidity, many formal workers lose jobs and tend to join the informal labour force. As a result, formal workers are transformed into informal workers, thereby transforming to low-productivity wage earners. They earn less and create lower demand compared with the earlier situation and affect overall growth. A rise in the number of informal workers exerts downward pressure on casual wages, which fall on the average. The stylised model findings show that global slowdown causes casual wages to decline, increasing wage and productivity inequalities between the formal and informal labour markets.
Horticulture Wholesale Trade and Governance in India
Authors: Minten Bart , Vandeplas Anneleen , Ghorpade Yashodhan , Swinnen Johan F.M.
Published: June 2010

In a detailed case study of traditional wholesale markets for vegetables in India (in the state of Uttarakhand), we find several important governance problems at horticulture wholesale markets: marketing regulations are ineffective, widespread confusion of roles exists between brokers and wholesalers and few services are being delivered in return for the money paid to brokers and wholesale market authorities. Licensing schemes and political muscle seem to be used to ensure that the system continues in its current form and that the development of closer vertical coordination, which is required in modern markets but generally bypasses brokers, is hindered.
Study on Strain Transfer Characteristics of Fiber Bragg Grating Sensors
Authors: Zhou J. , Zhou Z. , Zhang D.
Published: June 2010

In this article, strain transfer characteristics of fiber Bragg grating (FBG) sensors is analyzed with finite element method axial strain distribution of each layer described, and influencing factors of the strain transfer obtained, including bonded length of the sensor, thickness as well as Young’s modulus of the adhesive. The calculation results are verified by tensile tests of metal specimens. The results reveal that at suitable bonding conditions, the FBG sensors have good sensing characteristics. In addition, it is also easy for the chirping phenomenon to occur if the bonded length is not sufficient. The strain transfer efficiency can be improved and the chirping phenomenon reduced by either increasing the bonded length or decreasing the grating length or thickness of the adhesive, or choosing the proper adhesive.
Is There a Violation of Savage’s Sure-Thing Principle in the Prisoner’s Dilemma Game?
Authors: Shu Li  , Wang Zuo-Jun , Rao Li-Lin , Li Yan-Mei
Published: June 2010

This report seeks to determine whether the violation of Savage’s sure-thing principle is robust enough to survive in an original payoff domain of the prisoner’s dilemma game. It was found that the sure-thing principle was violated in the domain of gains as expected by Shafir and Tversky but obeyed in the domain of losses. It was further found that the sure-thing principle was also obeyed in the original prison sentence payoffs, which fall into the domain of losses. The findings suggest a reexamination of the application of the sure-thing principle in the prisoner’s dilemma game.
Spontaneous Thrombosis of Basilar Artery Aneurysm After Subarachnoidal Hemorrhage in a Patient With Thrombophilia and Recurrent Deep Venous Thrombosis
Authors: Vulekovic Petar , Karan Mladen , Kojadinovic Zeljko , Papic Vladimir , Djilvesi Djula , Mitic Gorana
Published: June 2010

We report a patient with combined thrombophilia—protein C deficiency and mild hyperhomocysteinemia with total spontaneous thrombosis of a basilar tip aneurysm after subarachnoid hemorrhage, without neurological deficit. At admission, the patient had headache, drowsiness, and nausea, with no neurological deficit. Computed tomography (CT) did not show the presence of subarachnoid blood, and magnetic resonance examination revealed discrete remains of a subarachnoid hemorrhage in projections of temporal, frontal and occipital lobes, with no vascular abnormalities. Initial angiography showed a small basilar tip aneurysm and the patient was scheduled for endovascular treatment. A second angiography, performed before the planned endovascular treatment, did not show the aneurysm and complete thrombosis was suspected. A follow-up angiogram, 6 months after this event, showed preserved posterior cerebral circulation with no aneurysm present. The patient was discharged in good condition, without neurological deterioration. We did not find any previous reports of similar conditions.
Testing Stage-Specific Effects of a Stage-Matched Intervention: A Randomized Controlled Trial Targeting Physical Exercise and Its Predictors
Authors: Lippke Sonia , Schwarzer Ralf , Ziegelmann Jochen P. , Scholz Urte , Schüz Benjamin
Published: June 2010

Health education interventions can be tailored toward stages of change. This strategy is based on theories that predict at which stage which variables are indicative of subsequent behavior change processes. For example, planning is regarded as being effective in intenders. However, rather few studies have tested whether matched interventions are more successful for stage transitions than mismatched ones. Also very few previous studies have identified specific variables as targets of stage-matched interventions. A 2 (condition) × 2 (stages) experimental study tested the effects of stage-matched interventions for 226 participants. The stage-matched intervention moved significantly more individuals forward to action than did the control condition. Stage-specific effects were found to corroborate 78% of the assumptions. Multiple mediator analyses revealed stage-specific mechanisms, indicating that intention and planning facilitated behavior change in intenders. Thus, health behavior interventions should take stages of change into account.
Performance of the Swanton multiple sclerosis criteria for dissemination in space
Authors: Nielsen JM , Uitdehaag BMJ , Korteweg T. , Barkhof F. , Polman CH
Published: June 2010

New diagnostic criteria for multiple sclerosis (MS) have been proposed by Swanton and co authors, but were not yet evaluated in patients suspected of MS, but diagnosed with another disease. The dissemination in space (DIS) criterion of these Swanton criteria was investigated in such a patient group and compared with the present McDonald criteria. We found that with the Swanton criteria for DIS, simplicity can be combined with some gain in sensitivity, without major loss of specificity.
‘This is citizen journalism at its finest’: YouTube and the public sphere in the Oscar Grant shooting incident
Authors: Antony Mary Grace , Thomas Ryan J.
Published: June 2010

On 1 January 2009, Oscar Grant was shot and killed in a subway station by Bay Area Rail Transit officers. This event was recorded by several passengers on their cellphones and later uploaded to the video-sharing website YouTube. The videos generated significant protests among online and offline communities, and were eventually used as evidence in the ensuing trial. This study employed a critical thematic analysis to examine audience responses to this act of citizen journalism on YouTube. Results indicated that although some viewers critiqued the video quality and the cameraperson’s passivity, several supportive comments praised the cameraperson’s presence of mind and courage. Furthermore, some viewers called for resistance and retaliation, while others advocated a more prudent response. We argue that these findings necessitate a reconceptualization of traditional notions of the guard-dog media and the public sphere to accommodate new media technologies.
Labors of love: netporn, Web 2.0 and the meanings of amateurism
Authors: Paasonen Susanna
Published: June 2010

The blurred boundaries between producers and consumers and the increased centrality of user-generated content have been seen as characteristic of Web 2.0 and contemporary media culture at large. In the context of online pornography, this has been manifested in the popularity of amateur pornography and alt porn sites that encourage user interaction. Netporn criticism has recently formed an arena for thinking through such transformations. Aiming to depart from the binary logic characterizing porn debates to date, netporn criticism nevertheless revokes a set of divisions marking the amateur apart from the professional, the alternative from the mainstream and the independent from the commercial. At the same time, such categories are very much in motion on Web 2.0 platforms. Addressing amateur pornography in terms of immaterial and affective labor, this article argues for the need to find less dualistic frameworks for conceptualizing pornography as an element of media culture.
To come to a correct understanding of Buddhism: A case study on spiritualizing technology, religious authority, and the boundaries of orthodoxy and identity in a Buddhist Web forum
Authors: Busch Laura
Published: June 2010

This study examines the Buddhist message forum, E-sangha, to analyze how this forum’s founder and moderators ‘spiritualized the Internet’ (Campbell, 2005a, 2005b) using contemporary narratives of the global Buddhist community, and in doing so, provided these actors with the authority to determine the boundaries of Buddhist orthodoxy and identity and validate their control of the medium through social and technical means. Through a structural and textual analysis of E-sangha’s Web space, this study demonstrates how Web producers and forum moderators use religious community narratives to frame Web environments as sacred community spaces (spaces made suitable for religious activities), which inherently allows those in control of the site the authority to set the boundaries of religious orthodoxy and identity and hence, who can take part in the community.
Real-time fatigue life monitoring based on thermodynamic entropy
Authors: Naderi M. , Khonsari MM
Published: June 2010

This article presents a methodology for real-time monitoring of fatigue life in machinery components that utilizes the accumulation of entropy to assess the severity of degradation associated with fatigue. Using this concept, a prototype called the fatigue monitoring unit that automatically shuts down the machine prior to the onset of fatigue fracture based on a user-specified factor of safety is developed. The method is applicable to variable loading and does not require the specification of the loading history or loading sequence. The results of a series of laboratory fatigue tests pertaining to Al 6061-T6 and SS 304 specimens, which show the utility of the approach and its suitability for implementation in the field, are provided.
Correlating low energy impact damage with changes in modal parameters: diagnosis tools and FE validation
Authors: Shahdin Amir , Morlier Joseph , Niemann Hanno , Gourinat Yves
Published: June 2010

This article presents a basic experimental technique and simplified finite element (FE)-based models for the detection, localization, and quantification of impact damage in composite beams around the barely visible impact damage level. Detection of damage is carried out by shift in modal parameters. Localization of damage is done by a topology optimization tool, which showed that correct damage locations can be found rather efficiently for low-level damage. The novelty of this article is that we develop an all in one package dedicated to impact identification by modal analysis. The damaged zones in the FE models are updated by reducing the most sensitive material property, in order to improve the experimental/ numerical correlation of the frequency response functions. These approximate damage models (in terms of equivalent rigidity) give us a simple degradation factor that can serve as a warning regarding the safety of the structure.
Preschoolers’ Incidental Learning of Novel Words During Storybook Reading
Authors: McLeod Angela N. , McDade Hiram L.
Published: June 2010

This investigation examined the ability of 44 preschool children to acquire novel words embedded in storybook contexts. Previous investigations of word learning have typically consisted of novel words for which synonyms exist. It is argued that the acquisition of unfamiliar words that refer to existing concepts that already have labels is not necessarily the same process as the acquisition of legitimately new words for novel referents. Storybook conditions were designed to provide equivalent opportunity for exposure to the target words in two different contexts. All target words consisted of single-syllable, high phonotactic probability sound sequences. This investigation was designed for several purposes: 1) to examine children’s receptive identification of novel words following brief exposure (fast mapping); 2) to identify possible differences in acquisition of nouns and verbs; and 3) to determine if the rate of acquisition of novel words significantly differs by the context of presentation. All children identified novel words following exposure through book reading, preferring nouns over verbs. Participants in one version of the story acquired a significantly greater total number of words. Verb learning did not differ significantly between the storybook conditions.
Colonial Cuisine: Food in British Nigeria, 1900-1914
Authors: Robins Jonathan
Published: June 2010

This article uses food as a window on the British colonization of Northern Nigeria between 1900 and 1914. It examines how Britons consumed food in the material and social contexts of colonialism and argues that food was an important tool for defining boundaries between rulers and the ruled. Colonial attitudes toward food expose the tension between propaganda and practice in contemporary texts that enthusiastically supported Britain’s “civilizing mission” in Nigeria.
Usefulness of salicylate and thiopurine coprescription in steroid-dependent ulcerative colitis and withdrawal strategies
Authors: Bermejo Fernando , Gisbert Javier P.
Published: June 2010

5-aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA) and thiopurines (azathioprine and mercaptopurine) are the most common drugs used as a maintenance treatment for ulcerative colitis. A considerable proportion of these patients develop corticosteroid dependency, and thiopurines are the standard treatment in this scenario. Dual prescriptions of both thiopurines and 5-ASA are common practice in steroid-dependent ulcerative colitis, in an attempt to optimize the efficacy of therapy. On the one hand, the potential protective role of 5-ASA against colorectal cancer argues in favour of prescription of both medications. The possible synergism between the two drugs, because of the inhibition of thiopurine methyltransferase (TPMT) enzyme activity by 5-ASA, has been postulated as another justification for dual prescription. However, existing evidence does not support that this combined strategy is superior to monotherapy with thiopurines. On the other hand, in patients showing prolonged disease remission, the possibility of discontinuing maintenance treatment can be considered on an individualized basis. The high frequency of relapses after thiopurine withdrawal should always be taken into account, but the potential adverse effects of the medication also need to be considered. A properly indicated treatment with thiopurines may need to be continued for life in many patients.
Activity of the multitargeted kinase inhibitor, AT9283, in imatinib-resistant BCR-ABL–positive leukemic cells
Authors: Tanaka Ruriko , Squires Matthew S. , Kimura Shinya , Yokota Asumi , Nagao Rina , Yamauchi Takahiro , Takeuchi Miki , Yao Hisayuki , Reule Matthias , Smyth Tomoko , Lyons John F. , Thompson Neil T. , Ashihara Eishi , Ottmann Oliver G. , Maekawa Taira
Published: June 2010

Despite promising clinical results from imatinib mesylate and second-generation ABL tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) for most BCR-ABL+ leukemia, BCR-ABL harboring the mutation of threonine 315 to isoleucine (BCR-ABL/T315I) is not targeted by any of these agents. We describe the in vitro and in vivo effects of AT9283 (1-cyclopropyl-3[5-morpholin-4yl methyl-1H-benzomidazol-2-yl]-urea), a potent inhibitor of several protein kinases, including Aurora A, Aurora B, Janus kinase 2 (JAK2), JAK3, and ABL on diverse imatinib-resistant BCR-ABL+ cells. AT9283 showed potent antiproliferative activity on cells transformed by wild-type BCR-ABL and BCR-ABL/T315I. AT9283 inhibited proliferation in a panel of BaF3 and human BCR-ABL+ cell lines both sensitive and resistant to imatinib because of a variety of mechanisms. In BCR-ABL+ cells, we confirmed inhibition of substrates of both BCR-ABL (signal transducer and activator of transcription-5) and Aurora B (histone H3) at physiologically achievable concentrations. The in vivo effects of AT9283 were examined in several mouse models engrafted either subcutaneously or intravenously with BaF3/BCR-ABL, human BCR-ABL+ cell lines, or primary patient samples expressing BCR-ABL/T315I or glutamic acid 255 to lysine, another imatinib-resistant mutation. These data together support further clinical investigation of AT9283 in patients with imatinib- and second-generation ABL TKI-resistant BCR-ABL+ cells, including T315I.