bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nedd4‐mediated AMPA receptor ubiquitination regulates receptor turnover and trafficking
Authors: Lin Amy , Hou Qingming , Jarzylo Larissa , Amato Steve , Gilbert James , Shang Fu , Man Heng‐Ye
Published: February 2011

J. Neurochem. (2011) 119, 27–39.

α‐Amino‐3‐hydroxy‐5‐methyl‐isoxazole‐4‐propionic acid receptors (AMPARs) are the primary mediators of excitatory synaptic transmission in the brain. Alterations in AMPAR localization and turnover have been considered critical mechanisms underpinning synaptic plasticity and higher brain functions, but the molecular processes that control AMPAR trafficking and stability are still not fully understood. Here, we report that mammalian AMPARs are subject to ubiquitination in neurons and in transfected heterologous cells. Ubiquitination facilitates AMPAR endocytosis, leading to a reduction in AMPAR cell‐surface localization and total receptor abundance. Mutation of lysine residues to arginine residues at the glutamate receptor subunit 1 (GluA1) C‐terminus dramatically reduces GluA1 ubiquitination and abolishes ubiquitin‐dependent GluA1 internalization and degradation, indicating that the lysine residues, particularly K868, are sites of ubiquitination. We also find that the E3 ligase neural precursor cell expressed, developmentally down‐regulated 4 (Nedd4) is enriched in synaptosomes and co‐localizes and associates with AMPARs in neurons. Nedd4 expression leads to AMPAR ubiquitination, leading to reduced AMPAR surface expression and suppressed excitatory synaptic transmission. Conversely, knockdown of Nedd4 by specific siRNAs abolishes AMPAR ubiquitination. These data indicate that Nedd4 is the E3 ubiquitin ligase responsible for AMPAR ubiquitination, a modification that regulates multiple aspects of AMPAR molecular biology including trafficking, localization and stability.
Effect of Limb Lead Electrodes Location on ECG and Localization of Idiopathic Outflow Tract Tachycardia: A Prospective Study
Authors: ARYA ARASH , HUO YAN , FROGNER FREDRICK , WETZEL ULRIKE , SOMMER PHILIPP , GASPAR THOMAS , RICHTER SERGIO , PIORKOWSKI CHRISTOPHER , HINDRICKS GERHARD
Published: February 2011

Role of ECG in Localization of OT‐VT. Background: Different kinds of the surface ECG limb electrode positions may affect the limb lead vector and therefore the accuracy of the 12‐lead ECG in localization of outflow tract ventricular tachycardia (OTVT). This study was intended to evaluate and compare the accuracy of the standard and the modified 12‐lead ECG for localization of OTVT using the current published criteria.

Methods and Results:
Twenty consecutive patients (10 men, mean age, 51.6 ± 13.4 years) with OT‐VT were included. A standard ECG with the distal placement of the limb lead electrodes and a modified ECG with the limb electrodes placed on the torso were recorded during the OT‐VT and were used for localization by 2 electrophysiologists who were blinded to the successful ablation site to compare the accuracy of the 2 ECGs. The R wave amplitude during OT‐VT in lead I of the standard 12‐lead ECG was significantly higher compared to the modified surface ECG (0.225 ± 0.145 mV vs 0.139 ± 0.111 mV, P = 0.032). The S wave in aVR during OT‐VT was significantly more negative compared to the modified surface ECG (−0.682 ± 0.182 mV vs −0.527 ± 0.228 mV, P = 0.017). The rate of accurate localization of the successful ablation sites in the anterior versus posterior outflow tract by the 2 observers using standard ECG (70% and 80%) were higher compared to modified ECG (50% and 60%, P = 0.042).

Conclusion:
The R wave amplitude in lead I and the depth of the S wave amplitude in lead aVR of the standard surface ECG during OT‐VT is significantly larger compared to the modified surface ECG. As the QRS morphology of the OT‐VT is usually the first clue to the possible site of successful ablation, the standard 12‐lead ECG should be used for more accurate localization of the origin of the OT‐VT. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 22, pp. 886‐891, August 2011)
How many flowering plants are pollinated by animals?
Authors: Ollerton Jeff , Winfree Rachael , Tarrant Sam
Published: February 2011

It is clear that the majority of flowering plants are pollinated by insects and other animals, with a minority utilising abiotic pollen vectors, mainly wind. However there is no accurate published calculation of the proportion of the ca 352 000 species of angiosperms that interact with pollinators. Widely cited figures range from 67% to 96% but these have not been based on firm data. We estimated the number and proportion of flowering plants that are pollinated by animals using published and unpublished community‐level surveys of plant pollination systems that recorded whether each species present was pollinated by animals or wind. The proportion of animal‐pollinated species rises from a mean of 78% in temperate‐zone communities to 94% in tropical communities. By correcting for the latitudinal diversity trend in flowering plants, we estimate the global number and proportion of animal pollinated angiosperms as 308 006, which is 87.5% of the estimated species‐level diversity of flowering plants. Given current concerns about the decline in pollinators and the possible resulting impacts on both natural communities and agricultural crops, such estimates are vital to both ecologists and policy makers. Further research is required to assess in detail the absolute dependency of these plants on their pollinators, and how this varies with latitude and community type, but there is no doubt that plant–pollinator interactions play a significant role in maintaining the functional integrity of most terrestrial ecosystems.
Histological classification of melasma with reflectance confocal microscopy: a pilot study in Chinese patients
Authors: Liu Huaxu , Lin Yan , Nie Xiaojuan , Chen Shengli , Chen Xuechao , Shi Benqing , Tian Hongqing , Shi Zhongxiang , Yu Meiling , Zhang Dizhan , Yang Baoqi , Wang Guangjin , Wu Mei , Zhang Furen
Published: February 2011

Objective: To investigate the histological classification of melasma with reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) in vivo.

Methods: Two hundred and ten cases with facial melasma lesions were enrolled. After informed consent, the target melasma lesion of 10 patients were imaged with RCM and then biopsied as well. Under the RCM scanning, the distribution of the melanin determined the histological types, and then, the results of RCM images were compared with those of the histopathology. The other 200 cases were tested only with RCM.

Results: For the 10 cases imaged and biopsied, compared with that of the perilesional normal skin, the amount of melanin was significantly increased in the epidermis in all lesions under RCM, while three cases also found melanin in the dermis. Thus, seven of the10 patients were categorized as the epidermal type while the other three as mixed ones, and the results were well correlated with those of the histopathology. Of the other 200 patients, 143 cases 71.5%) were categorized as the epidermal type while the other 57 (28.5%) cases as mixed ones.

Limitations: If more melasma cases are biopsied, the data will be more convincing.

Conclusion: RCM in vivo analysis shows complete coherence with histopathology results, which could be an alternative for the classification of melasma, and based on the results of RCM imaging, melasma is classified into two major types: the epidermal type and mixed type.
The validity of a structured interactive 24‐hour recall in estimating energy and nutrient intakes in 15‐month‐old rural Malawian children
Authors: Thakwalakwa Chrissie M. , Kuusipalo Heli M. , Maleta Kenneth M. , Phuka John C. , Ashorn Per , Cheung Yin Bun
Published: February 2011

This study aimed to compare the nutritional intake values among 15‐month‐old rural Malawian children obtained by weighed food record (WFR) with those obtained by modified 24‐hour recall (mod 24‐HR), and to develop algorithm for adjusting mod 24‐HR values so as to predict mean intake based on WFRs. The study participants were 169 15‐month‐old children who participated in a clinical trial. Food consumption on one day was observed and weighed (established criterion) by a research assistant to provide the estimates of energy and nutrient intakes. On the following day, another research assistant, blinded to the direct observation, conducted the structured interactive 24‐hour recall (24‐HR) interview (test method). Paired t‐tests and scatter‐plots were used to compare intake values of the two methods. The structured interactive 24‐HR method tended to overestimate energy and nutrient intakes (each P < 0.001). The regression‐through‐the‐origin method was used to develop adjustment algorithms. Results showed that multiplying the mean energy, protein, fat, iron, zinc and vitamin A intake estimates based on the test method by 0.86, 0.80, 0.68, 0.69, 0.72 and 0.76, respectively, provides an approximation of the mean values based on WFRs.
Seasonality in the occurrence of two lepidopterous olive pests in Egypt
Authors: Hegazi Esmat M. , Konstantopoulou Maria A. , Herz Annette , Khafagi Wedad E. , Agamy Essam , Showiel Sania , Atwa Atwa , Abd El‐Aziz Gehan M. , Abdel‐Rahman Safaa M.
Published: February 2011

Abstract  Prays oleae Bern, (OM) and Palpita unionalis Hüb., (JM) are two of the most important pests in olive groves in Egypt. A 3‐year monitoring study using sex pheromone traps in semi‐arid and arid olive groves was performed. In the semi‐arid grove, flight pattern of the OM was the same as in other Mediterranean countries, but in dates concordating plant phenology. The moth completes three generations annually: the first flight is in March to April, the second is in May to June and the third occurs in August to October. In the arid olive grove, an interesting flight pattern was observed. First flight was always very close or overlapped with the second one with no male catches during August to October. However, eggs were present most of the season, indicating unusually high female presence and oviposition activity of the OM during the absence of males in the traps. Generally, moth densities were significantly lower in low fruiting years than in higher ones and were also lower in the arid olive grove than in the semi‐arid one. In contrast, JM males were present all season, exhibiting six to seven and three to four overlapping flight peaks in arid and semi‐arid olive groves, respectively. Moth densities were significantly higher in the arid olive grove than those in the semi‐arid one. This study shows that trapping location and fruit bearing year are characteristics that strongly affect the grove‐specific information needed to estimate correctly adult emergence and thus the timing of control measures.
Potential geographical distribution of Rhagoletis pomonella (Diptera: Tephritidae) in China
Authors: Geng Jian , Li Zhi‐Hong , Rajotte Edwin G. , Wan Fang‐Hao , Lu Xiao‐Yu , Wang Zhi‐Ling
Published: February 2011

Abstract  Apple maggot fly, Rhagoletis pomonella (Walsh) is a major pest causing considerable economic losses of fruits in North America. During the development of international trade, apple maggot fly has become a threat to Chinese agriculture. In this study, CLIMEX and ArcGIS were used to predict the potential geographical distribution of apple maggot fly in China. The parameters used in CLIMEX for apple maggot fly were derived from ecological data and the present geographical distribution of apple maggot fly in North America. Then the potential distribution map in China was presented based on the adjusted values of these parameters. The results showed that apple maggot fly has a wide potential distribution area in China; 47.5% of 748 meteorological stations presented high or medium suitability of pest establishment. These high suitable stations are mainly located in northeast, southwest and northwest of China, such as Liaoning, Shandong, Gansu and Shaanxi Provinces. These areas are also the central regions of apple, pear and peach production in China. Two hundred and twenty‐five stations (30.1%) in western and southern China, such as Tibet, Qinghai, Guangdong, Guangxi, Hainan and Taiwan, were unsuitable for establishment of apple maggot fly populations. In order to prevent the introduction of apple maggot fly in China, the present plant quarantine measures should be enhanced, especially in the areas with high suitability for the presence of apple maggot fly.
Treatment With Pravastatin Attenuates Oxidative Stress and Protects Osteoblast Cell Viability From Indoxyl Sulfate
Authors: Iwasaki Yoshiko , Yamato Hideyuki , Fukagawa Masafumi
Published: February 2011

Chronic kidney disease has a high level of oxidative stress, a phenomenon that is induced, at least in part, by the accumulation of uremic toxins. Several reports have revealed that indoxyl sulfate, one of the uremic toxins, accelerates oxidative stress in chronic kidney disease. On the other hand, it is also well known that statins have pleiotropic effects; however, it still remains unclear whether statins suppress osteoblastic cell dysfunction or cytotoxicity induced by uremic toxins. To elucidate whether statins ameliorate osteoblast dysfunction induced by uremic toxins, we conducted an in vitro study using primary cultured osteoblastic cells from mouse calvariae. Indoxyl sulfate induced reactive oxygen species production and reduced cell viability in osteoblastic cells in a dose dependent manner. The addition of pravastatin suppressed reactive oxygen species production and ameliorated cell viability. These data suggest that pravastatin attenuates oxidative stress and protects osteoblastic cell viability from indoxyl sulfate.
Development of a Novel Questionnaire Evaluating Disability in Activities of Daily Living in the Upper Extremities of Patients Undergoing Maintenance Hemodialysis
Authors: Kutsuna Toshiki , Matsunaga Atsuhiko , Takagi Yutaka , Motohashi Sachiko , Yamamoto Kazuya , Matsumoto Takuya , Ishii Akira , Takahira Naonobu , Yoshida Atsushi , Masuda Takashi
Published: February 2011

The aim of the present study was to develop a novel questionnaire evaluating disability in the activities of daily living in the upper extremities of hemodialysis (HD) patients (QDUE‐HD). We recruited 83 patients (40 males and 43 females) aged 66 ± 8 years, and measured their muscle strength and range of motion in the upper extremities. Moreover, 14 patients performed a six‐week exercise training regimen (the exercise group) and were compared with 15 patients not performing such training (the control group). In an initial questionnaire consisting of 37 items, 30 were taken from the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire and the Activities of Daily Living Test, and the remaining seven were selected from activities that HD patients perceived as impossible or extremely difficult to perform. The principal factor analysis focused on 11 items, as 26 showing floor and ceiling effects were excluded. These 11 items were divided into two categories consisting of six items termed “light work” and five termed “holding activities”. The scores for light work and holding activities correlated significantly and positively with both muscle strength and range of motion in the upper extremities. These scores increased significantly after the six‐week exercise training as compared with those before training in the exercise group. We conclude that the QDUE‐HD is clinically useful for evaluating disability in activities of daily living in the upper extremities of HD patients because of its high reliability, validity and responsiveness.
A Vision of Social‐Legal Change: Rescuing Ehrlich from “Living Law”. Eugen. Ehrlich. 1936. Fundamental Principles of the Sociology of Law. Trans. Walter L. Moll. Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press. Pp. xxxvi + 541. Originally published in German, 1913.
Authors: Tamanaha Brian Z.
Published: February 2011

The hundredth anniversary of the original publication of Eugen Ehrlich's Fundamental Principles of the Sociology of Law is nearly upon us. The book earned high praise from Oliver Wendell Holmes, Roscoe Pound, and Karl Llewellyn as one of the outstanding works of its time. Ehrlich has been identified as an early legal realist, a pioneering figure in legal sociology, and a leading theorist of legal pluralism. In this retrospective review, I explain the strengths and weaknesses of this classic book. Ehrlich articulated an unsurpassed account of dynamic social‐legal change, an account that remains fresh and timely today.
Effects of different irrigation solutions on root dentine microhardness, smear layer removal and erosion
Authors: Ulusoy Özgür İ. A. , Görgül Güliz
Published: February 2011

This study aimed to compare the effects of different irrigants on root dentine microhardness, erosion and smear layer removal. A total of 72 root dentine slices were divided into six groups, according to the final irrigants used: Group 1: 17% ethylenediamine tetra‐acetic acid (EDTA) + 2.5% NaOCl, Group 2: 7% maleic acid (MA) + 2.5% sodium hypochloride (NaOCl), Group 3: 1.3% NaOCl + mixture of tetracycline, acid and detergent (MTAD), Group 4: Smear Clear + 2.5% NaOCl, Group 5: 5% NaOCl, Group 6: saline. Vickers microhardness values were measured before and after treatment. In total, 42 root‐halves were prepared for scanning electron microscope to evaluate the amount of smear and erosion in the coronal, middle and apical thirds. Data were analysed using two‐way anova, Duncan and two‐proportion z‐tests. Maleic acid showed the greatest reduction in dentine microhardness (P < 0.05), followed by EDTA and MTAD. EDTA, maleic acid, MTAD and Smear Clear removed smear layer efficiently in the coronal and middle thirds of root canal. However, in the apical region, maleic acid showed more efficient removal of the smear layer than the other irrigants (P < 0.05).
Endodontic management of hypo‐, meso‐ and hypertaurodontism: Case reports
Authors: Parolia Abhishek , Khosla Manak , Kundabala Mala
Published: February 2011

Taurodontism is a morpho‐anatomical developmental anomaly rarely seen in teeth. It is characterised by lack of constriction at the level of cementoenamel junction with elongated pulp chambers and apical displacement of bifurcation or trifurcation of roots. This gives the tooth a rectangular or cylindrical appearance. This paper reports successful endodontic therapy of cases with hypo‐, meso‐ and hypertaurodontism in healthy individuals with no associated syndrome or anomaly.
Computed tomography of the prostate gland in apparently healthy entire dogs
Authors: Lee K.‐J. , Shimizu J. , Kishimoto M. , Kadohira M. , Iwasaki T. , Miyake Y.‐I. , Yamada K.
Published: February 2011

Objectives: To describe the computed tomography (CT) features of the prostate gland and determine prostate size using CT in entire male dogs.

Methods: The prostate gland was evaluated in 35 dogs. Morphological features including homogeneity, delineation, shape and intraprostatic differentiation were assessed. Height, length, width, area, volume and attenuation values of the prostate gland were measured. Ratios of prostatic height (rH), length and width to the sixth lumbar vertebral body length were calculated. Relationships of prostatic dimensions with body weight and age were evaluated.

Results: The prostate gland was homogeneous in 29 dogs on non‐contrast images and 18 of 24 dogs on postcontrast images. Transverse images revealed a semi‐oval prostate gland in 29 dogs and irregularly shaped prostate gland in 6 dogs. A prominent median septum was observed in postcontrast images. Significant positive correlations were found between body weight and age and all prostatic dimensions except between age and rH. The mean ±sd values for attenuation were 59·3 ±9·1 and 121·3 ±22·7 HU in non‐contrast and postcontrast image, respectively.

Clinical Significance: CT can be useful for evaluating morphological features of the prostate gland. Prostatic length or width is a better measure than height for computed tomographic estimation of prostate size.
Performances of different diagnostic tests for feline infectious peritonitis in challenging clinical cases
Authors: Giori L. , Giordano A. , Giudice C. , Grieco V. , Paltrinieri S.
Published: February 2011

Objectives: Feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) can be difficult to diagnose. Histopathology is considered the gold standard test but immunohistochemistry (IHC) is mandatory to confirm/exclude the disease. This study aimed to assess the performances of tests carried out in vivo or at postmortem examination in challenging cases in which FIP was confirmed or excluded based on IHC or on adequate follow‐up.

Methods: Twelve cases (four without FIP, eight with FIP) were retrospectively studied. Clinical findings, serum protein electrophoresis (SPE), analysis of the effusions (AE), antifeline coronavirus serology, serum concentration of α1‐acid glycoprotein (AGP) and histopathology were classified as consistent, doubtful or non‐consistent with FIP. Sensitivity, specificity and concordance (κ) with the final diagnosis were calculated.

Results: Concordance was absent for serology (κ=−0·08) and AE (κ=−0·52), poor for histopathology (κ=0·09), fair for SPE (κ=0·25) and perfect for AGP (κ=1·00). Sensitivity was high for AGP (100%) and low for AE (50%), SPE (37·5%) and histopathology (37·5%). Specificity was high for AGP or histopathology (100%) and low for SPE (50%) and AE (0%).

Clinical Significance: IHC must always be performed to confirm FIP. If this is not possible, when histopathology is controversial, elevated AGP concentrations may support the diagnosis of FIP.
Encephalopathy with Neuroserpin Inclusion Bodies Presenting as Progressive Myoclonus Epilepsy and Associated with a Novel Mutation in the Proteinase Inhibitor 12 Gene
Authors: Hagen Matthew C. , Murrell Jill R. , Delisle Marie‐Bernadette , Andermann Eva , Andermann Frederick , Guiot Marie Christine , Ghetti Bernardino
Published: February 2011

Neuroserpin encephalopathy is an autosomal‐dominant degenerative disease associated with mutations in the Proteinase Inhibitor 12 (PI12) gene. A 26‐year‐old male presented with progressive myoclonus epilepsy and declining mental status. He had failed in university studies because of impaired attention, memory and concentration. Generalized seizures started to occur approximately once a month, and he developed myoclonus and progressive gait disturbances. Neuroimaging revealed mild atrophy and multiple periventricular white matter lesions, consistent with demyelination. He progressively declined and died at age 34. Neuropathologic examination revealed widespread involvement of the cerebral cortex by numerous round eosinophilic inclusions in neuronal perikarya and neuropil, predominantly within the deep cortical layers. Numerous inclusions were also found in the basal ganglia, thalamus, hippocampus, brain stem, spinal gray matter, and dorsal root ganglia. They were essentially absent from the cerebellum. The inclusions were immunopositive for antibodies raised against neuroserpin. The white matter lesions showed histologic features compatible with multiple sclerosis. Genetic analysis revealed a nucleotide substitution in codon 47 in one allele of the PI12 gene, resulting in a proline for leucine amino acid substitution (L47P). In summary, we report a case of neuroserpin encephalopathy associated with a novel PI12 mutation and complicated by coexistent multiple sclerosis.
Put a Brain in Your Camera: Nonstandard Perspectives and Computer Images in the Arts
Authors: Reggini Horacio C.
Published: February 2011

Ever since the geometry of central perspective (conical projection) was developed in the XV century, it has been observed that mechanical application of the procedure leads to effects of distortion and exaggeration of shapes and sizes, which often make the result look unnatural. Similar observations are made with the optical projections obtained in photography and video. Artists have intuitively corrected these perceptual shortcomings of perspective. In standard perspective, each point of an object or scene is projected upon a plane by means of a bundle of straight projection rays departing from a viewpoint. In the nonstandard perspective that I have developed, I follow a similar procedure, except that I replace the straight projection rays of standard perspective with special curved ones. This model has been validated by visual experiments in the open field. The next step will integrate the nonstandard perspective into a new kind of digital camera which will allow the user to select a preferred perspective by changing an index from i = 0 (conical) up to i = 1 (parallel).
Social support as a motivator of self‐management among adults with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Oftedal Bjørg , Bru Edvin , Karlsen Bjørg
Published: February 2011

oftedal b, bru e & karlsen b (2011) Journal of Nursing and Healthcare of Chronic Illness 3, 12–22 Social support as a motivator of self‐management among adults with type 2 diabetes

Aim.  This paper is a report of research on how people with type 2 diabetes perceive social support, how social support is associated with diet and exercise management, and the degree to which these relationships are mediated by the expectations people with type 2 diabetes have of their own ability.

Background.  Many people with type 2 diabetes have difficulties in motivating themselves to self‐manage diet and exercise. It has been suggested that the social support provided by healthcare practitioners, family and friends may be an essential contributor in motivating people with type 2 diabetes to adopt and maintain diet and exercise management. However, there has been little research to explore how social support interacts with motivation in the self‐management of type 2 diabetes.

Methods.  This study had a cross‐sectional design. The data were collected by a postal questionnaire assessing perceived social support as well as ability expectations, diet and exercise management. A sample comprising 425 adults aged 30–70 years with type 2 diabetes completed the questionnaire. The data were collected during September/October 2008.

Results.  The descriptive results showed that the majority of the participants reported constructive support from healthcare practitioners, whereas relatively few felt they had support from family and friends. Only modest associations were found between social support and self‐management. Some of the associations, however, were mediated by ability expectations. Associations of variables assessing social support with diet management were strongest among those who had the disease <6 years.

Conclusions and relevance to clinical practice.  Findings indicate that it is important for healthcare practitioners to consider the balance between empathic, non‐confrontational and confrontational approaches. For some people with type 2 diabetes, a more confrontational approach could be appropriate. They should also be aware that stimulating self‐management is challenging and complex and may depend on tailor‐made and ongoing support. Finally, findings suggest there is room for improvement in support from family and friends.
Medication knowledge, adherence and predictors among people with heart failure and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Gallagher Robyn , Warwick Melannie , Chenoweth Lynn , Stein‐Parbury Jane , Milton‐Wildey Kathleen
Published: February 2011

gallagher r, warwick m, chenoweth l, stein‐parbury j & milton‐wildey k (2011) Journal of Nursing and Healthcare of Chronic Illness 3, 30–40 Medication knowledge, adherence and predictors among people with heart failure and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Background.  Although medicines are a key component in the self‐management of chronic illness, lack of adherence is a common problem.

Aim.  To describe medication adherence and predictors in relation to the Multidimensional Adherence Model among older adults with chronic illness.

Method.  During a home interview, we collected data from 118 patients with chronic illnesses (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and heart failure), following a recent illness exacerbation, to determine self‐reported medication adherence, medication knowledge and capacity for self‐management of their illness. We used the Medication Adherence Model as an organising framework and performed multivariate analyses to determine the independent predictors. We conducted the study between April 2005–June 2006.

Results.  Participants had an average age of 75·54 years (SD 8·38), with marginally more men (56·8%) than women, and were prescribed an average 4·68 (SD 2·11) medications for their primary diagnosis of either chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or heart failure. Most participants (75·2%) were adherent to their prescribed medicines; however, medication knowledge was low [mean score 47·61 (SD 18·73) out of a potential 100]. Predictors of better adherence to medicines were patient‐related: female gender and higher self‐management capacity, and condition‐related: heart failure diagnosis. Socioeconomic and treatment‐related factors were not identified as independent predictors of medication adherence. Predictors of better medication knowledge were higher capacity for self‐management, more concurrent conditions, younger age and taking fewer medicines.

Conclusion.  Assessment of self‐management capacity, targeting interventions towards patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and men, rather than relying solely on increasing medication knowledge, is essential to improve medication adherence. The Multidimensional Adherence Model requires further investigation to determine its use in patients with chronic illness in general.

Relevance to clinical practice.  The most effective interventions to improve medication adherence are less likely to be those focused on patient education, and more likely to be those tailored to increasing patients’ self‐management capacity. Programmes will need to involve formal and informal carers. Simple strategies designed to improve medication adherence, such as medication reminders, daily routines, and multi‐dose packs have been reported to be effective in systematic reviews and by patients’ themselves. We recommend all of these strategies to improve medication adherence in persons with chronic illnesses.
Separate and joint effects of physical and mental health on participation of people with somatic chronic illness
Authors: Jansen Daphne L , Rijken Mieke
Published: February 2011

jansen dl & rijken m (2011) Journal of Nursing and Healthcare of Chronic Illness 3, 61–72 Separate and joint effects of physical and mental health on participation of people with somatic chronic illness

Aim.  To examine the extent to which people with a somatic chronic illness participate in paid jobs, volunteer work, informal care and social activities, and to investigate the separate and joint effects of physical and mental health on participation.

Background.  Compared with healthy people, people with a chronic illness experience more difficulties with respect to participation in several life domains.

Methods.  Data were collected within the National Panel of the Chronically Ill and Disabled by means of questionnaires. Data of 1456 panel members diagnosed with a somatic chronic disease(s) were used, and analysed using univariate, bivariate and multivariate analyses.

Results.  About half of the working age people with a chronic illness were in paid employment, 25% carried out volunteer work, 18% performed informal care and 58% of the people participated in social activities. Main effects were found for physical functioning and pain on paid work, pain and mental health on volunteer work and physical functioning on informal care. An interaction effect was observed for pain and mental health on both paid and volunteer work; as mental health is better, less pain is associated with a greater chance of paid work and more pain is associated with a greater chance of volunteer work.

Conclusions.  The findings emphasise the importance of mental health for participation in people with a chronic somatic illness, besides physical health.

Relevance to clinical practice.  In contrast with many of their physical limitations, the mental health state of patients with a chronic illness could be improved. Health care providers, including nurses, should take into account patients’ mental health states and make efforts to treat mental health problems.
Understanding: Between belief and unbelief
Authors: Kahn Joel S.
Published: February 2011

This paper addresses issues raised in Taylor’s work concerning how communities may come to work in normatively secular ways. For Taylor, it seems to be sufficient for believers (and nonbelievers) to acknowledge that their own ‘construals’ are not shared by everyone. However, this leaves open the question of how the acknowledgement of difference may be turned into respect. A common strategy is to require that faith‐based truth claims are ‘bracketed out’, treating secular and religious discourse as ‘nonoverlapping magisteria’. This secularising strategy is, however, problematic on a number of counts. The article makes a case for a less confrontational, more cosmopolitan conversation between secular and religious reason in a postsecular age, examining in particular the possibilities for conversation between science and mysticism. It concludes that it is possible to retain a commitment to naturalism and yet also accept some of the most mystical of propositions, thereby establishing a bridge between ‘secular’ and ‘religious’ forms of reasoning.
Hyperoxia in the treatment of traumatic brain injury and stroke
Authors: TOLIAS CHRISTOS M.
Published: February 2011

Traumatic brain injury and acute ischemic stroke are major causes of mortality and morbidity throughout the world. Treatment in both conditions remains partially successful. In recent years, hyperoxia (increased inspired oxygen concentration), both hyperbaric and normobaric, has shown significant promise as treatment modality in these conditions. We review the recent relevant evidence from human trials and discuss the mechanisms involved in the pathophysiology.
An experiment on the attrition of acid demineralized dentine in vitro
Authors: Li H , Liu MC , Deng M , Moazzez R , Bartlett DW
Published: February 2011

Background:  A laboratory investigation was designed to test the hypothesis that acids increase the rate of wear caused by attrition on dentine.

Methods:  Dentine sections from 10 teeth were polished, cleaned in an ultrasonic bath and divided into 8 equally sized areas. The occlusal tip of a tooth, placed vertically in a wear machine and loaded at 150 N, was moved against each dentine section for 5000 return strokes with artificial saliva acting as a lubricant. Each dentine section was divided into 8 sections and half randomly immersed in a 1% citric acid solution (pH 2.3) for 20 minutes. The wear regime produced 8 wear scars in total per dentine sample. The volume of each wear scar was measured using a contacting digitizing profilometer.

Results:  A total of 80 wear scars were produced with 40 treated with acid and 40 acting as controls. The mean for wear volume of the dentine scars with acid was 4.84 μm3 (1.38) and for the non‐acid surface 2.95 μm3 (0.86). This difference was statistically significant (p < 0.05).

Conclusions:  These results support the hypothesis that acids increase the rate of wear caused by attrition on dentine.
Violence, Security and Democracy: Perverse Interfaces and their Implications for States and Citizens in the Global South
Authors: Pearce Jenny , McGee Rosemary , Wheeler Joanna
Published: February 2011

How does violence affect the everyday lives of citizens in the global South? Researching this theme under the aegis of the Violence, Participation and Citizenship group of the Citizenship DRC coordinated by IDS, we generated some answers, but also more questions, which this paper starts to explore. Why have democratisation processes failed to fulfil expectations of violence reduction in the global South? How does violence affect democracy and vice versa? Why does security practice in much of the global South not build secure environments? When examined empirically from the perspectives of poor Southern citizens, the interfaces between violence, security and democracy – assumed in conventional state and democratisation theory to be positive or benign – are often, in fact, perverse.

Empirically‐based reflection on these questions leads us to two propositions, which the paper then explores through the use of secondary literature. In essence:

Proposition 1: Violence interacts perversely with democratic institutions, eroding their legitimacy and effectiveness. Democracy fails to deliver its promise of replacing the violence with accommodation and compromise, and democratic process is compromised, with citizens reacting by withdrawing from public spaces, accepting the authority of non‐state actors, or supporting hard‐line responses.

Proposition 2: Security provision is not making people feel more secure. State responses to rising violence can strengthen state and non‐state security actors committed to reproducing violence, disproportionately affecting the poorest communities.

These ‘perverse interfaces’, we argue, warrant research in themselves, rather than minimal or tangential consideration in research on democracy, as tends to be the case. Further research needs to adopt fresh epistemological, methodological and analytical perspectives and seek to re‐think and re‐frame categories and concepts, rather than working within the received wisdoms of state and democratisation theory.
A QUADRATIC UPPER BOUND ON THE SIZE OF A SYNCHRONIZING WORD IN ONE-CLUSTER AUTOMATA
Authors: BÉAL MARIE-PIERRE , BERLINKOV MIKHAIL V. , PERRIN DOMINIQUE
Published: February 2011

Černý's conjecture asserts the existence of a synchronizing word of length at most (n - 1)2 for any synchronized n-state deterministic automaton. We prove a quadratic upper bound on the length of a synchronizing word for any synchronized n-state deterministic automaton satisfying the following additional property: there is a letter a such that for any pair of states p, q, one has p·ar = q·as for some integers r, s (for a state p and a word w, we denote by p·w the state reached from p by the path labeled w). As a consequence, we show that for any finite synchronized prefix code with an n-state decoder, there is a synchronizing word of length O(n2). This applies in particular to Huffman codes.
THE INCLUSION PROBLEM OF CONTEXT-FREE LANGUAGES: SOME TRACTABLE CASES
Authors: BERTONI ALBERTO , CHOFFRUT CHRISTIAN , RADICIONI ROBERTO
Published: February 2011

We study the problem of testing whether a context-free language is included in a fixed set L0, where L0 is the language of words reducing to the empty word in the monoid defined by a complete string rewrite system. We prove that, if the monoid is cancellative, then our inclusion problem is polynomially reducible to the problem of testing equivalence of straight-line programs in the same monoid. As an application, we obtain a polynomial time algorithm for testing if a context-free language is included in a Dyck language (the best previous algorithm for this problem was doubly exponential).
REDUCTION TREE OF THE BINARY GENERALIZED POST CORRESPONDENCE PROBLEM
Authors: HALAVA VESA , HOLUB ŠTĚPÁN
Published: February 2011

An instance of the (Generalized) Post Correspondence Problem is during the decision process typically reduced to one or more other instances, called its successors. In this paper we study the reduction tree of GPCP in the binary case. This entails in particular a detailed analysis of the structure of end blocks. We give an upper bound for the number of end blocks, and show that even if an instance has more than one successor, it can nevertheless be reduced to a single instance. This, in particular, implies that binary GPCP can be decided in polynomial time.
ANGULAR DISTRIBUTIONS OF FRAGMENTS PRODUCED IN TERNARY REACTION OF 197Au+197Au AT 15 A MeV
Authors: LI XIAN , TIAN JUNLONG , YAN SHIWEI , CHENG JINXIA , JIANG XIANG
Published: February 2011

Angular distributions of fragments have been studied for 197 Au +197 Au ternary reactions at bombarding energy 15 A MeV by an improved quantum molecular dynamics model. The calculated results are qualitatively in agreement with the experimental data. Through analyzing the angular distributions of fragments, it is shown that in semi-peripheral collisions 197 Au +197 Au interacting system often reseparates into three massive fragments which are almost aligned in space along the separation axis. The anisotropic distribution in azimuthal angle ϕ shows that the projectile-like fragment (PLF) or target-like fragment (TLF) breaks up violently, reflecting nonequilibrium effects in the consecutive reseparation. The time scale elapsing from the scission of the binary PLF+TLF system to the secondary scission of PLF or TLF is estimated to be of about 80 fm /c. It is found that the distribution in Θ cm depends on the impact parameter, and its peak seems to be moving and narrowing with increasing impact parameter. Its asymptotic peak value is in agreement with the grazing angle. The shift of the peak value of Θ cm implies that the collective energy dissipation depends on impact parameter and decreases with impact parameter increasing since the exchange of nucleons becomes less frequent during the reaction process.
NEW PARAMETRIZATION OF NEUTRINO MIXING MATRIX
Authors: BENAOUM H. B.
Published: February 2011

Global fits to neutrino oscillation data are compatible with tri-bimaximal mixing pattern, which predict θ23 = π/4, [Formula: see text] and θ13 = 0. We propose here to parametrize the tri-bimaximal mixing matrix V TBM by its hermitian generator H TBM using the exponential map. Then we use the exponential map to express the deviations from tri-bimaximal pattern by deriving the hermitian matrices Hz = 0 and H1. These deviations might come from the symmetry breaking of the neutrino and charged lepton sectors.
f(R) TERM AND GEOMETRIC ORIGIN OF THE DARK SECTOR IN HOŘAVA–LIFSHITZ GRAVITY
Authors: WANG ANZHONG
Published: February 2011

Inclusion of f(R) term in the action of Hořava–Lifshitz quantum gravity with projectability but without detailed balance condition is investigated, where R denotes the 3-spatial dimensional Ricci scalar. Conditions for the spin-0 graviton to be free of ghosts and instability are studied. The requirement that the theory reduces to general relativity in the IR makes the scalar mode unstable in the Minkowski background but stable in the de Sitter. It is remarkable that the dark sector, dark matter and dark energy, of the universe has a naturally geometric origin in such a setup. Bouncing universes can also be constructed. Scalar perturbations in the FRW backgrounds with nonzero curvature are also studied.
Sinyi Real Estate in China: The Challenges of Maintaining an Ethical Business Culture
Authors: Tsai Terence , Young Michael N. , Cheng Bor-shiuan , Liu Shubo Phillip
Published: February 2011

Sinyi was one of the most successful real estate agent companies in Taiwan and China mainland. Sinyi's founder, Chun-chi Chou, embraced Confucian perspective in his management and successfully cultivated a "people-centered" corporate culture for both Sinyi's employees and customers. Mr. Chou proclaimed "trustworthiness and fair dealing" as the guiding principles for the company. This was in contrast to the immature environment of the real estate brokerage industry in China, where immoral real estate agents were common. Sinyi also signed a master franchise agreement with Coldwell Banker Real Estate Corporation (Coldwell Banker) as its China market entry strategy. However, large international competitors and local real estate agents were aggressively seizing market share and it became difficult for Sinyi to sustain its vision and its unique management style with high-speed expansion. The case highlights the business ethics that has been a cornerstone of Sinyi's success and outlines competitor and industry conditions in China's real estate industry, focusing on the following questions: Should Sinyi adhere to its corporate philosophy of righteousness and trustworthiness among its staff? Does Sinyi need to change its business model in countering its competitors' aggressive moves? What necessary measures must Sinyi take in the ever-changing market? What role did Chou's responsible leadership play in Taiwan and would it be working in China mainland's market?
Strategic Planning at Brisbane Airport
Authors: Paul Justin , De Groot Eva
Published: February 2011

The CEO of Brisbane Airport Corporation (BAC), Koen Rooijmans, and his airport planning executive manager, Mark Willey, were preparing strategic plan for BAC's required development projects to facilitate the forecasted future demand of aircraft traffic movements at Brisbane Airport. This forecast, estimated an 80% increase in the total number of passengers who will use the airport by 2012–13. As a consequence, BAC's current facilities would not be sufficient to handle this increase in operations. Therefore, BAC had to expand its airport by constructing new roads, extending its terminals, and building a new runway.

This case takes a look at how BAC's airport planning department implemented its new projects. Before BAC was allowed to expand its airport, the company had to write an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) and a Major Development Plan (MDP). In case of the new runway, all possible problems concerning the community, the environment, noise pollution, and the impact on its current operations had to be considered.

Another important issue is the diversification possibility of Brisbane airport as an airport city. In this way, the airport become less dependent on their aeronautical-related revenues that tend to diminish in case of terrorist attacks, economic downturns, and collapsing airlines. Besides providing transportation means, the airport city can also offer exhibition complexes, regional corporate headquarters, entertainment, and retail outlets.
Variation of Chemical and Photoluminescence Properties of Mg-Doped GaN Caused by High-Temperature Process
Authors: Ogawa Eri , Hashizume Tamotsu
Published: February 2011

We characterize the chemical and photoluminescence (PL) properties of GaN with Mg doping densities of 7×1017 and 2×1019 cm-3, particularly focusing on their variations caused by the high-temperature process. Before the thermal process, band-edge emission dominated the PL spectrum in the lightly Mg-doped GaN, whereas luminescence at 3.2 eV with a high intensity similar to that of the band-edge line was observed in the highly Mg-doped GaN. For the lightly Mg-doped GaN, the thermal process at 900 °C enhanced the intensity of the broad band in the energy range from 1.5 to 2.5 eV. Pronounced Ga outdiffusion caused by the high-temperature process was also confirmed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and secondary ion mass spectroscopy, indicating that these emission lines originate from the transitions between the conduction band and deep levels related to a defect complex involving a Ga vacancy (VGa + X). For the highly Mg-doped GaN, the peak energy of the dominant PL line abruptly changed from 3.2 to 2.8 eV after the process at 1000 °C. Simultaneously, a non uniform profile of Mg density was found near the GaN surface, arising from the pronounced surface segregation of Mg. It is thus likely that a defect complex involving a Mg interstitial and a Ga vacancy (MgI + VGa) is responsible for the 2.8 eV band in the highly Mg-doped and high-temperature-processed GaN.