bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sustained Expression of Osteopontin Is Closely Associated with Calcium Deposits in the Rat Hippocampus After Transient Forebrain Ischemia
Authors: Park Jang-Mi , Shin Yoo-Jin , Kim Hong Lim , Cho Jeong Min , Lee Mun-Yong
Published: April 2012

The present study was designed to evaluate the extent and topography of osteopontin (OPN) protein expression in the rat hippocampus 4 to 12 weeks following transient forebrain ischemia, and to compare OPN expression patterns with those of calcium deposits and astroglial and microglial reactions. Two patterns of OPN staining were recognized by light microscopy: 1) a diffuse pattern of tiny granular deposits throughout the CA1 region at 4 weeks after ischemia and 2) non-diffuse ovoid to round deposits, which formed conglomerates in the CA1 pyramidal cell layer over the chronic interval of 8 to 12 weeks. Immunogold-silver electron microscopy and electron probe microanalysis demonstrated that OPN deposits were indeed diverse types of calcium deposits, which were clearly delineated by profuse silver grains indicative of OPN expression. Intracellular OPN deposits were frequently observed within reactive astrocytes and neurons 4 weeks after ischemia but rarely at later times. By contrast, extracellular OPN deposits progressively increased in size and appeared to be gradually phagocytized by microglia or brain macrophages and some astrocytes over 8 to 12 weeks. These data indicate an interaction between OPN and calcium in the hippocampus in the chronic period after ischemia, suggesting that OPN binding to calcium deposits may be involved in scavenging mechanisms.
Release Kinetics of Cardiac Biomarkers in Patients Undergoing Transcoronary Ablation of Septal Hypertrophy
Authors: Liebetrau Christoph , Möllmann Helge , Nef Holger , Szardien Sebastian , Rixe Johannes , Troidl Christian , Willmer Matthias , Hoffmann Jedrzej , Weber Michael , Rolf Andreas , Hamm Christian
Published: April 2012

BACKGROUND

The release kinetics of cardiac troponin T measured with conventional vs high-sensitivity cardiac troponin T (hs-cTnT) assays in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is difficult to establish.

METHODS

We analyzed the release kinetics of cTnT measured by fourth generation and high-sensitivity assays, creatine kinase-MB (CK-MB), and myoglobin in patients with hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy undergoing transcoronary ablation of septal hypertrophy (TASH), a model of AMI. Consecutive patients (n = 21) undergoing TASH were included. Serum and EDTA-plasma samples were collected before and at 15, 30, 45, 60, 75, 90, and 105 min, and 2, 4, 8, and 24 h after TASH.

RESULTS

cTnT concentrations measured by the hs assay were significantly increased at 15 min [21.4 ng/L, interquartile range (IQR) 13.3–39.7 ng/L vs 11.3 ng/L, IQR 6.0–18.8 ng/L at baseline; P = 0.031]. In comparison, cTnT concentrations measured by the conventional fourth generation assay increased significantly at 60 min (30.0 ng/L, IQR 20.0–30.0 ng/L vs <10.0 ng/L, IQR <10.0–10.0 ng/L; P < 0.01), CK-MB at 90 min (8.4 μg/L, IQR 6.9–14.4 μg/L vs 0.9 μg/L, IQR 0.4–1.1 μg/L; P < 0.01), and myoglobin at 30 min (188.0 μg/L, IQR 154.0–233.0 μg/L vs 38.0 μg/L, IQR 28.0–56.0; P < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

cTnT concentrations measured by the hs assay were significantly increased after TASH at all of the time points, with a doubling at 15 min after induction of AMI, confirming earlier evidence of myocardial injury compared to the fourth generation cTnT assay and CK-MB and myoglobin.
(Neo)Shamanic Dialogues
Authors: Langdon Esther Jean , Rose Isabel Santana de
Published: April 2012

This paper is a reflection on the ritual incorporation of ayahuasca, an Amazonian psychoactive ritual substance, by members of a Guarani Indian village on the Atlantic coast of the state of Santa Catarina, Brazil. Their shamanic leaders have adapted the use of this beverage into their ritual practices and recognize it as part of their culture and tradition. This process of appropriation is a result of the formation of a network that involves various actors, among them the Guarani Indians, members of Sacred Fire of Itzachilatlan, followers of the Brazilian ayahuasca religion Santo Daime, and a health team employed to provide primary attention to Indian communities. Based on this case study, we demonstrate that shamanisms today emerge out of specific political and historic contexts. If the concept of shamanism is useful as an analytical paradigm, it must be thought of as a dialogical category constructed through interaction between actors with diverse origins, discourses, and interests.
Osmotic stress and cryoinjury of koala sperm: an integrative study of the plasma membrane, chromatin stability and mitochondrial function
Authors: Johnston S D , Satake N , Zee Y , López-Fernández C , Holt W V , Gosálvez J
Published: April 2012

This study investigated whether cryopreservation-induced injury to koala spermatozoa could be explained using an experimental model that mimics the structural and physiological effects of osmotic flux. DNA labelling after in situ nick translation of thawed cryopreserved spermatozoa revealed a positive correlation (r=0.573; P<0.001; n=50) between the area of relaxed chromatin in the nucleus and the degree of nucleotide labelling. While the chromatin of some spermatozoa increased more than eight times its normal size, not all sperm nuclei with relaxed chromatin showed evidence of nucleotide incorporation. Preferential staining associated with sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF) was typically located in the peri-acrosomal and peripheral regions of the sperm head and at the base of the spermatozoa where it appear to be ‘hot spots’ of DNA damage following cryopreservation. Results of the comparative effects of anisotonic media and cryopreservation on the integrity of koala spermatozoa revealed that injury induced by exposure to osmotic flux, essentially imitated the results found following cryopreservation. Plasma membrane integrity, chromatin relaxation and SDF appeared particularly susceptible to extreme hypotonic environments. Mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), while susceptible to extreme hypo- and hypertonic environments, showed an ability to rebound from hypertonic stress when returned to isotonic conditions. Koala spermatozoa exposed to 64 mOsm/kg media showed an equivalent, or more severe, degree of structural and physiological injury to that of frozen–thawed spermatozoa, supporting the hypothesis that cryoinjury is principally associated with a hypo-osmotic effect. A direct comparison of SDF of thawed cryopreserved spermatozoa and those exposed to a 64 mOsm/kg excursion showed a significant correlation (r=0.878; P<0.05; n=5); however, no correlation was found when the percentage of sperm with relaxed chromatin was compared. While a cryo-induced osmotic injury model appears to explain post-thaw changes in koala SDF, the mechanisms resulting in relaxed chromatin require further study. A lack of correlation between the percentage of sperm with relaxed chromatin and SDF suggests that the timing of these pathologies are asynchronous. We propose an integrative model of cryo-induced osmotic injury that involves a combination of structural damage (rupture of membrane) and oxidative stress that first leads to the reduction of MMP and the relaxation of chromatin, which is then ultimately followed by an increase in DNA fragmentation.
Lexical Selectivity in Danish Toddlers with Cleft Palate
Authors: Willadsen Elisabeth
Published: April 2012

Objective

To study if Danish children with cleft palate display lexical selectivity in their early lexicon at 18 months of age.

Design

A cross-sectional study.

Participants

Thirty-four children with unilateral cleft lip and palate and 35 children without cleft palate, matched for gender and age.

Methods

All participants were video recorded at 18 months of age during play interaction with a parent. The video recordings were transcribed according to the International Phonetic Alphabet and an individual consonant inventory was established for each participant. The video recordings were also analyzed with respect to word productions, establishing an observed productive vocabulary size for each participant.

Results

At 18 months of age Danish children with cleft palate showed marked lexical selectivity in their early words. The distribution of consonant classes observed at 11 months of age in a previous study of the children with cleft palate was almost perfectly reflected in their early lexicon at 18 months. The early lexicon of children with cleft palate differed from the early lexicon of their noncleft peers.

Conclusions and Implications

Danish toddlers with cleft palate display lexical selectivity in the early lexicon as it has been described for English-speaking toddlers with and without cleft palate, even though some qualitative differences were found.
Experimental Study about the Hysteretic Performance of the Pall-typed Piezoelectric Friction Damper
Authors: Zhang Jigang , Deng Wenyan , Yue Zhuwen
Published: April 2012

Because of its excellent energy dissipation capacity, friction damper has a wide application in engineering
structure, while its use is restricted by constant frictional force. Piezoelectric ceramic actuator has electrochromic
deformation ability, by the use of this advantage to combine piezoelectric ceramic actuator with friction damper to form
piezoelectric friction damper. This paper conducts some experiments, firstly to study the force output performance,
response time of ordinary piezoelectric friction damper, hysteretic behavior as well as its energy dissipation, secondly to
study the performance of the Pall-typed piezoelectric friction damper which is consisted by Pall-typed frictional damper
and piezoelectric ceramic actuator. The results show piezoelectric friction dampers have good force output capacity and
they increase with the input voltage increases; the dampers have a quick response and a short response time; the hysteretic
behaviors are stable, which almost has no relevance with loading frequency.
Effects of n-Octyl-β-D-Glucopyranoside on Human and Rat Erythrocyte
Membrane Stability Against Hemolysis
Authors: Sblano Cesare , Micelli Silvia , Meleleo Daniela
Published: April 2012

The practical importance for the pharmaceutical and cosmetics industries of the interactions between biological
membranes and surfactant molecules has led to intensive research within this area. The interactions of non-ionic surfactant
n-octyl-β-D-glucopyranoside (OG) with the human and rat erythrocyte membranes were studied. The in vitro hemolytic
and antihemolytic activities were determined by employing a method in which both erythrocytes were added to the
hypotonic medium containing OG at different concentrations, and the amount of haemoglobin released was determined. noctyl-
β-D-glucopyranoside was found to have a biphasic effect on both types of erythrocyte membrane. We also
investigated the interactions of OG with the erythrocyte membrane in isotonic medium; the dose-dependent curves show
similar behaviour in both human and rat erythrocytes. Our results showed that OG has greater antihemolytic potency on
rat than on human erythrocytes; furthermore, rat erythrocytes were more sensitive than human erythrocytes to hypotonic
shock. How the different lipoprotein structure of these erythrocytes determines a difference in antihemolytic activity is
discussed.
Preparation of Nickel Modified Carbon Fibre Electrodes and their
Application for Methanol Oxidation
Authors: S. Risbud M. , Baxter S. , Skyllas-Kazacos M.
Published: April 2012

Nickel modified carbon fibre electrodes were prepared by electrochemical oxidation and partial reduction of a
graphite fibre electrode with a slow linear potential sweep in 97% H2SO4 solution followed by impregnation & ionexchange
with Ni+2species. The cyclic voltammetry of the modified electrode in an alkaline medium showed
electrocatalytic activity towards methanol oxidation which is consistent with the behaviour of a polycrystalline nickel
electrode in the same media. The electrode fabricated through the ion exchange with 0.1 M Ni solution provided the most
significant response for solutions with lower methanol concentrations up to 0.5 M methanol while at higher concentrations
of methanol, a poisoning effect was observed resulting in lower performance.
Cardiovascular Autonomic Neuropathy and Subclinical Cardiovascular Disease in Normoalbuminuric Type 1 Diabetic Patients
Authors: Mogensen Ulrik Madvig , Jensen Tonny , Køber Lars , Kelbæk Henning , Mathiesen Anne Sophie , Dixen Ulrik , Rossing Peter , Hilsted Jannik , Kofoed Klaus Fuglsang
Published: April 2012

Cardiovascular autonomic neuropathy (CAN) is associated with increased mortality in diabetes. Since CAN often develops in parallel with diabetic nephropathy as a confounder, we aimed to investigate the isolated impact of CAN on cardiovascular disease in normoalbuminuric patients. Fifty-six normoalbuminuric, type 1 diabetic patients were divided into 26 with (+) and 30 without (−) CAN according to tests of their autonomic nerve function. Coronary artery plaque burden and coronary artery calcium score (CACS) were evaluated using computed tomography. Left ventricular function was evaluated using echocardiography. Blood pressure and electrocardiography were recorded through 24 h to evaluate nocturnal drop in blood pressure (dipping) and pulse pressure. In patients +CAN compared with −CAN, the CACS was higher, and only patients +CAN had a CACS >400. A trend toward a higher prevalence of coronary plaques and flow-limiting stenosis in patients +CAN was nonsignificant. In patients +CAN, left ventricular function was decreased in both diastole and systole, nondipping was more prevalent, and pulse pressure was increased compared with −CAN. In multivariable analysis, CAN was independently associated with increased CACS, subclinical left ventricular dysfunction, and increased pulse pressure. In conclusion, CAN in normoalbuminuric type 1 diabetic patients is associated with distinct signs of subclinical cardiovascular disease.
Effects of Hyperglycemia and Effects of Ketosis on Cerebral Perfusion, Cerebral Water Distribution, and Cerebral Metabolism
Authors: Glaser Nicole , Ngo Catherine , Anderson Steven , Yuen Natalie , Trifu Alexandra , O’Donnell Martha
Published: April 2012

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) may cause brain injuries in children. The mechanisms responsible are difficult to elucidate because DKA involves multiple metabolic derangements. We aimed to determine the independent effects of hyperglycemia and ketosis on cerebral metabolism, blood flow, and water distribution. We used magnetic resonance spectroscopy to measure ratios of cerebral metabolites (ATP to inorganic phosphate [Pi], phosphocreatine [PCr] to Pi, N-acetyl aspartate [NAA] to creatine [Cr], and lactate to Cr) and diffusion-weighted imaging and perfusion-weighted imaging to assess cerebral water distribution (apparent diffusion coefficient [ADC] values) and cerebral blood flow (CBF) in three groups of juvenile rats (hyperglycemic, ketotic, and normal control). ATP-to-Pi ratio was reduced in both hyperglycemic and ketotic rats in comparison with controls. PCr-to-Pi ratio was reduced in the ketotic group, and there was a trend toward reduction in the hyperglycemic group. No significant differences were observed in NAA-to-Cr or lactate-to-Cr ratio. Cortical ADC was reduced in both groups (indicating brain cell swelling). Cortical CBF was also reduced in both groups. We conclude that both hyperglycemia and ketosis independently cause reductions in cerebral high-energy phosphates, CBF, and cortical ADC values. These effects may play a role in the pathophysiology of DKA-related brain injury.
Dimensionality of Organizational Justice in a Call Center Context
Authors: Flint Douglas , Haley Lynn M. , McNally Jeffrey J.
Published: April 2012

Employees in three call centers were surveyed about their perceptions of organizational justice. Four factors were measured: distributive justice, procedural justice, interpersonal justice, and informational justice. Structural equation modeling was employed to test whether a two-, three-, or four-factor model best fit the call center data. A three-factor model of distributive, procedural, and informational justice provided the best fit to these data. The three-factor model that showed the best fit does not conform to any of the more traditional models identified in the organizational justice literature. This implies that the context in which organizational justice is measured may play a role in identifying which justice factors are relevant to employees. Findings add to the empirical evidence on the dimensionality of organizational justice and imply that dimensionality of organizational justice is more context-dependent than previously thought.
Reactions to a Survey among Those Who were and were Not Sexually Assaulted while Serving in the Military
Authors: Sandberg Alicia A. , Murdoch Maureen , Polusny Melissa A. , Grill Joe
Published: April 2012

Surveys are among the most common methods for evaluating military sexual assault experiences among members of the U.S. military; however, little research has examined how receiving surveys about such sexual assaults might affect recipients. In the present sample of 530 active duty and veteran military personnel, just 10% reported unexpected upset, 11% reported regretting participation in the survey, and 22% reported benefitting from that participation overall. A minority of respondents with a history of sexual assault while in the military reported unexpected upset, although the prevalence was three times higher than that of participants without such history (24% vs 8%). There were no statistically significant differences in perceived regret and benefit of participation in the survey between those with and without a history of sexual assault while in the military. Although limited in number, male military sexual assault survivors ( n = 8) were significantly more likely than female survivors to report being more upset by the survey than they had anticipated. Implications for future research are discussed.
Relationships among Self-Esteem, Stress, and Physical Activity in College Students
Authors: Hubbs Allison , Doyle Eva I. , Bowden Rodney G. , Doyle Robert D.
Published: April 2012

The purpose of this study was to identify population and sex-specific relationships between perceived stress, self-esteem, and physical activity in college students. 90 students, ages 18 and older and enrolled in five sections of a health and human behavior class during the spring 2010 semester, were contacted for this study with 74 consenting to serve as study participants. Each participant completed three surveys: the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, the Perceived Stress Scale, and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire. Significant correlations were observed between perceived stress and self-esteem in men, and in women. Physical activity was not significantly correlated with perceived stress or self-esteem.
Reliability of the Ego-Grasping Scale
Authors: Lester David
Published: April 2012

Research using Knoblauch and Falconer's Ego-Grasping Scale is reviewed. Using a sample of 695 undergraduate students, the scale had moderate reliability (Cronbach alpha, odd-even numbered items, and test-retest), but a principal-components analysis with a varimax rotation identified five components, indicating heterogeneity in the content of the items. Lower Ego-Grasping scores appear to be associated with better psychological health. The scale has been translated and used with Korean, Kuwaiti, and Turkish students, indicating that the scale can be useful in cross-cultural studies.
Sex-Role Orientation and Attachment Styles of Sex Offenders
Authors: Schneck Mary M. , Bowers Thomas G. , Turkson Maria A.
Published: April 2012

Given the increase of individuals who have a history of sexual offenses, there has been an increase in research on the etiology of sex-offending behavior. The present purpose was to evaluate the relationship between sex-role orientation and attachment styles of males who were sex offenders. Analysis yielded statistically significant differences between comparison ( n = 22) and clinical groups ( n = 21) in gender roles, with little sign of the androgynous gender type for sex offenders. The offender group showed significantly lower frequency of androgyny scores and significantly higher scores on feminine and undifferentiated orientations, supporting the theoretical view of sex offenders as being “cross-sex-typed.” In addition, the sex offender group had a significantly higher mean score on anxious-avoidant relationship attachment. Based on the present findings, there appears to be a need to help sex offenders explore how their gender roles may relate to their sex-offending behavior and assist sex offenders in the development of adaptive relationships with reduced anxiety and ambivalence.
Religious Orientation and Mental Health: A Study with Turkish University Students
Authors: Kuyel Nilay , Cesur Sevim , Ellison Christopher G.
Published: April 2012

The present study examined the relationship between religious orientation and mental health symptoms among Turkish students. A total of 341 undergraduate students between the ages of 18 and 26 completed the Brief Symptom Inventory and Age Universal Intrinsic-Extrinsic Scale. Extrinsic orientation was found to be correlated positively with symptoms of anxiety and depression. There were also significant correlations between hostility scores and both intrinsic and extrinsic religious orientations. Patterns were similar to those reported previously, but correlations were mostly in the .10–.14 range. In multiple-regression models, extrinsic orientation emerged as the only significant predictor for hostility, anxiety, and depression; however, only 2% of the variance was explained.
Race/Ethnicity and Mental Health in the First Decade of the 21st Century
Authors: Rosenthal Beth Spenciner , Wilson W. Cody
Published: April 2012

Recent empirical studies on mental health generally report racial/ethnic differences in depression rates but typically do not control for potential confounding by sample contextual variations in historical epoch, geographical location, and social demography. An empirical study of race/ethnicity differences in psychological distress is reported as an attempt to control these contexts by using a sample that is homogeneous in age, historical epoch, geography, and social demography (954 youth ages 18–19 living in a single, large urban community). No mean differences in psychological distress were observed among four racial/ethnic groups: Asians, African Americans, Latinos, and non-Hispanic Whites. A second analysis compared 17 different racial/ethnic groups defined in terms of family national origin. No differences in psychological distress were found among these groups. The findings are consistent with the view that race/ethnicity itself is not related to disparities in mental health.
Comparison between Immigrant and Spanish Native-Born Pathological Gambling Patients
Authors: Penelo Eva , Fernández-Aranda Fernando , Menchón José Manuel , Granero Roser , Aymamí Neus , Gómez-Peña Mònica , Moragas Laura , Santamaría Juan José , Custal Núria , Jiménez-Murcia Susana
Published: April 2012

The study compared clinical, psychopathological, and personality profiles between immigrants and Spanish native-born pathological gambling patients. A total of 1,601 native-born and 133 immigrant patients attending treatment at a specialized hospital unit were administered a battery of questionnaires during clinical assessment. Outcome measures were compared between both groups and the incremental predictive accuracy of the area of origin was examined using a regression model. Native-born Spaniards showed a mean 2.6 yr. greater duration of the disorder, while immigrants scored higher on South Oaks Gambling Screen, frequency of going to casinos, and total money spent (in a single day and / or to recover losses). General psychopathology and personality scores did not differ between the cohorts. However, immigration from Asia had a statistically significantly incremental validity for pathological gambling in South Oaks Gambling Screen scores. Both cohorts shared more similarities than differences in their gambling profiles.
Forgiveness in Relation to Attachment Style and Consanguine Marriage in Iranian Married Individuals
Authors: Shahidi Shahriar , Zaal Behnaz , Mazaheri Mohammad Ali
Published: April 2012

The aim of this study was to compare forgiveness in secure and insecure Iranian married couples. Whether marriage had occurred within the family (consanguine) or not (non-consanguine) was also considered. 400 married participants completed the Family Forgiveness Scale and the Adult Attachment Questionnaire. Analysis of reported forgiveness within the marital family showed that, although there was no significant difference between secure and insecure participants in overall forgiveness, secure participants rated “reparation” and “resolution” higher, whereas insecure participants rated “realization” and “recognition” higher. Comparing the experience of forgiveness in the family of origin, securely attached couples not only reported significantly more overall forgiveness but reported more “realization” and “resolution” while forgiving. Some interesting sex differences were also found, as individuals in consanguine vs non-consanguine couples differed in mean “recognition” in the forgiveness process.
Psychometric Properties of Attitudes towards Lesbians and Gay Men Scale with Chinese University Students
Authors: Wu Joseph , Kwok Diana K.
Published: April 2012

The 10-item Attitudes Towards Lesbian and Gay Men Scale was translated into traditional Chinese, with slight modification in item wordings (by replacing the words such as “lesbians” with “female homosexuals” and “gay men” with “male homosexuals”). Data were collected with a convenient sample of 462 Chinese undergraduate students in social work training programmes from three Hong Kong universities. Analysis of the data showed responses to the scale and its two subscales were internally consistent and a one-factor structure was found on the total scale and separately on each of its two subscales. Differences by religious belief and sex were observed using the total scale scores, as in previous studies using this scale. Researchers could consider using this scale with Hong Kong Chinese and in subsequent cross-cultural studies involving a wider range of Chinese respondents.
The Tower of London Test: Different Scoring Criteria for Diagnosing Alzheimer's Disease and Mild Cognitive Impairment
Authors: de Paula Jonas Jardim , Moreira Lafaiete , Nicolato Rodrigo , De Marco Luiz Armando , Côrrea Humberto , Romano-Silva Marco Aurélio , De Moraes Edgar Nunes , Bicalho Maria Aparecida , Malloy-Diniz Leandro Fernandes
Published: April 2012

The Tower of London (TOL) is used for evaluating planning skills, which is a component of the executive functions. Different versions and scoring criteria were developed for this task, and some of them present with different psychometrical properties. This study aimed to evaluate two specific scoring methods of the TOL in diagnosing Mild Cognitive Impairment and probable Alzheimer's disease. The TOL total scores from 60 patients of each diagnosis were compared with the performance of 60 healthy-aged controls using receiver operating characteristics analysis and multinomial logistic regression. Krikorian method better diagnosed Alzheimer's disease, while Portellas's was better at discriminating healthy controls from Mild Cognitive Impairment, but were not efficient at comparing this last group with Alzheimer's patients. Regression analysis indicates that in addition to screening tests, TOL improves the classification of the three groups. The results suggest the two scoring methods used for this task may be useful for different diagnostic purposes.
Taking Levels of Analysis in Humor more Seriously: Comment on Romero and Arendt
Authors: Sosik John J.
Published: April 2012

Humor is a phenomenon that can simultaneously coexist at the individual, dyadic, and group levels, making its measurement and conceptualization complex. In a recent field study, Romero and Arendt (2011) examined relationships between four humor styles (i.e., affiliative, self-enhancing, aggressive, self-defeating) and four outcomes (i.e., stress, satisfaction with co-workers, team cooperation, organizational commitment), however, the latter was apparently measured as a self-report at the individual level of analysis. Their interesting results indicated different humor styles can have either positive or negative effects on these outcome variables. However, if their operational definition—and hence their conceptualization—of humor is based on self-report by the initiator, it may be problematic to use it at the dyadic and group levels because it potentially mixes levels of analysis and may cause misalignment between data and theory. Cautions and implications for future research are discussed.
Self-Estimates of Intelligence: Interaction Effects of the Comparison to a Specific Reference Group and Neuroticism
Authors: Bipp T. , Kleingeld A.
Published: April 2012

An experiment that investigated the interaction effect of Neuroticism and the comparison to different reference groups on self-estimates of intelligence is reported. University students (100 men, 15 women) were randomly assigned to two experimental groups and asked to rate their own intelligence on a one-item measure, in IQ points, having been provided with reference values for either the general population or a student sample. Analysis of data confirmed that the accuracy of self-estimates of intelligence was influenced by the variation of the instruction. Participants provided more accurate estimations when confronted with comparison information about fellow students than about the general population. Persons scoring high on Neuroticism estimated their intelligence lower, but only when their estimation was based on a general reference group. Theoretical and practical implications were discussed.
Effects of Gaze and Speech Rate on Receivers' Evaluations of Persuasive Speech
Authors: Yokoyama Hitomi , Daibo Ikuo
Published: April 2012

This study examined how gaze and speech rate affect perceptions of a speaker. Participants viewed a video recording of one of four persuasive messages delivered by a female speaker. Analysis of speech rate, gaze, and listener's sex revealed that when combined with a small amount of gaze, slow speech rate decreased trustworthiness as compared to a fast speech rate. For women, slow speech rate was thought to be indicative of less expertise as compared to a fast speech rate, again when combined with low gaze. There were no significant interactions, but there were main effects of gaze and speech rate on persuasiveness. High levels of gaze and slow speech rate each enhanced perceptions of the speaker's persuasiveness.
Exploring the Relationships between Free-Time Management and Boredom in Leisure
Authors: Wang Wei-Ching , Wu Chang-Yang , Wu Chung-Chi , Huan Tzung-Cheng
Published: April 2012

The purpose of the study was to examine the relations of five dimensions of free-time management (including goal setting and evaluating, technique, values, immediate response, and scheduling) with leisure boredom, and whether these factors could predict leisure boredom. A total of 500 undergraduates from a university in southern Taiwan were surveyed with 403 usable questionnaires was returned. Pearson correlation analysis revealed that five dimensions of free-time management had significant negative relationships with leisure boredom. Furthermore, the results of stepwise regression analysis revealed that four dimensions of free-time management were significant contributors to leisure boredom. Finally, we suggested students can avoid boredom by properly planning and organizing leisure time and applying techniques for managing leisure time.
F-limit points in dynamical systems defined on the interval
Authors: Szuca Piotr
Published: April 2012

Given a free ultrafilter p on ℕ we say that x ∈ [0, 1] is the p-limit point of a sequence (x n)n∈ℕ ⊂ [0, 1] (in symbols, x = p -limn∈ℕ x n) if for every neighbourhood V of x, {n ∈ ℕ: x n ∈ V} ∈ p. For a function f: [0, 1] → [0, 1] the function f p: [0, 1] → [0, 1] is defined by f p(x) = p -limn∈ℕ f n(x) for each x ∈ [0, 1]. This map is rarely continuous. In this note we study properties which are equivalent to the continuity of f p. For a filter F we also define the ω F-limit set of f at x. We consider a question about continuity of the multivalued map x → ω fF(x). We point out some connections between the Baire class of f p and tame dynamical systems, and give some open problems.
Reconstruction versus no reconstruction of iliac crest defects following harvest for spinal fusion: a systematic review
Authors: Chau Anthony M. T. , Xu Lileane L. , van der Rijt Rhys , Wong Johnny H. Y. , Gragnaniello Cristian , Stanford Ralph E. , Mobbs Ralph J.
Published: April 2012

Object

Autologous bone from the iliac crest is commonly used for spinal fusion. However, its use is associated with significant donor site morbidity, especially pain. Reconstructive procedures of the iatrogenic defect have been investigated as a technique to alleviate these symptoms. The goal of this study was to assess the effects of reconstruction versus no reconstruction following iliac crest harvest in adults undergoing spine surgery.

Methods

The authors searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (The Cochrane Library 2011, Issue 4); MEDLINE (1948–Oct 2011); EMBASE (1947–Oct 2011); and the reference lists of articles. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) or nonrandomized controlled trials (NRCTs) were included in the study. Two independent reviewers selected the studies, extracted data using a standardized collection form, and assessed for risk of bias.

Results

Three RCTs (96 patients) and 2 NRCTs (82 patients) were included. These had a moderate to high risk of bias. The results suggest that iliac crest reconstruction may be useful in reducing postoperative pain, minimizing functional disability, and improving cosmesis. No pattern of other clinical, radiological, or resource outcomes was identified.

Conclusions

Although the available evidence is suboptimal, this systematic review supports the notion that iliac crest reconstruction following harvest for spinal fusion may reduce postoperative pain, minimize functional disability, and improve cosmesis.
Methods for Measuring and Estimating Methane Emission from Ruminants
Authors: Storm Ida M. L. D. , Hellwing Anne Louise F. , Nielsen Nicolaj I. , Madsen Jørgen
Published: April 2012

This paper is a brief introduction to the different methods used to quantify the enteric methane emission from ruminants. A thorough knowledge of the advantages and disadvantages of these methods is very important in order to plan experiments, understand and interpret experimental results, and compare them with other studies. The aim of the paper is to describe the principles, advantages and disadvantages of different methods used to quantify the enteric methane emission from ruminants. The best-known methods: Chambers/respiration chambers, SF6 technique and in vitro gas production technique and the newer CO2 methods are described. Model estimations, which are used to calculate national budget and single cow enteric emission from intake and diet composition, are also discussed. Other methods under development such as the micrometeorological technique, combined feeder and CH4 analyzer and proxy methods are briefly mentioned. Methods of choice for estimating enteric methane emission depend on aim, equipment, knowledge, time and money available, but interpretation of results obtained with a given method can be improved if knowledge about the disadvantages and advantages are used in the planning of experiments.
Phages and HIV-1: From Display to Interplay
Authors: Delhalle Sylvie , Schmit Jean-Claude , Chevigné Andy
Published: April 2012

The complex hide-and-seek game between HIV-1 and the host immune system has impaired the development of an efficient vaccine. In addition, the high variability of the virus impedes the long-term control of viral replication by small antiviral drugs. For more than 20 years, phage display technology has been intensively used in the field of HIV-1 to explore the epitope landscape recognized by monoclonal and polyclonal HIV-1-specific antibodies, thereby providing precious data about immunodominant and neutralizing epitopes. In parallel, biopanning experiments with various combinatorial or antibody fragment libraries were conducted on viral targets as well as host receptors to identify HIV-1 inhibitors. Besides these applications, phage display technology has been applied to characterize the enzymatic specificity of the HIV-1 protease. Phage particles also represent valuable alternative carriers displaying various HIV-1 antigens to the immune system and eliciting antiviral responses. This review presents and summarizes the different studies conducted with regard to the nature of phage libraries, target display mode and biopanning procedures.
International Journal of Molecular Science Best Paper Award 2012
Authors: Lai Kathy
Published: April 2012

International Journal of Molecular Science is instituting an annual award to recognize the outstanding papers in the area of chemistry, molecular physics and molecular biology published in the International Journal of Molecular Science. [...]
The Interactions between Blood and Polymeric Nanoparticles Depend on the Nature and Structure of the Hydrogel Covering the Surface
Authors: Labarre Denis
Published: April 2012

Polymeric surfaces in contact with blood in vivo are foreign bodies and are quickly isolated from blood by the non-specific defense systems. Nanoparticles (NP) used as drug carriers are normally quickly taken up by phagocytes and sequestered in liver and spleen to which they can deliver drugs. Long-circulating and/or low complement activating core-shell NPs can be obtained from PEO/PEG amphiphilic copolymers forming brush or loops on the surface. Core-shell NPs can also be obtained from polysaccharidic graft or block amphiphilic copolymers. Complement activation by the NPs and protein adsorption both depend on the structure, nature and molecular weight of the polysaccharide chains composing the shell. NPs showing low complement activation can be obtained if the polysaccharide on the surface is long and in a brush configuration. Fragile molecules such as hemoglobin or siRNA can be loaded and protected by appropriate brush shells without modifying the low complement activation properties.
Erich Auerbach and His "Figura": An Apology for the Old Testament in an Age of Aryan Philology
Authors: Zakai Avihu , Weinstein David
Published: April 2012

Auerbach’s goal in writing “Figura” and Mimesis was the rejection of Aryan philology and Nazi barbarism, based on racism, chauvinism and the mythologies of Blood, Volk and Soil, which eliminated the Old Testament from the Christian canon and hence from European culture and civilization. Following the Nazi Revolution of 1933 and the triumph of Aryan philology, Auerbach began writing “Figura,” published in 1938, where he provided an apology for the Old Testament’s validity and credibility, striving to prove that the Jewish Bible was inseparable from the New Testament contrary to the claims of Aryan philology and Nazi historiography. Auerbach’s “Figura” should be considered not merely as a philological study but also, and more importantly, as a crucial stage in his response to the crisis of German philology with Mimesis, in turn, seen as his affirmation, against Aryan philology’s Nazi racist and völkish views, of the humanist, Judeo-Christian foundation of European civilization.
Comparison of Methods for Estimation of Stem Volume, Stem Number and Basal Area from Airborne Laser Scanning Data in a Hemi-Boreal Forest
Authors: Lindberg Eva , Hollaus Markus
Published: April 2012

This study compares methods to estimate stem volume, stem number and basal area from Airborne Laser Scanning (ALS) data for 68 field plots in a hemi-boreal, spruce dominated forest (Lat. 58°N, Long. 13°E). The stem volume was estimated with five different regression models: one model based on height and density metrics from the ALS data derived from the whole field plot, two models based on similar combinations derived from 0.5 m raster cells, and two models based on canopy volumes from the ALS data. The best result was achieved with a model based on height and density metrics derived from 0.5 m raster cells (Root Mean Square Error or RMSE 37.3%) and the worst with a model based on height and density metrics derived from the whole field plot (RMSE 41.9%). The stem number and the basal area were estimated with: (i) area-based regression models using height and density metrics from the ALS data; and (ii) single tree-based information derived from local maxima in a normalized digital surface model (nDSM) mean filtered with different conditions. The estimates from the regression model were more accurate (RMSE 52.7% for stem number and 21.5% for basal area) than those derived from the nDSM (RMSE 63.4%–91.9% and 57.0%–175.5%, respectively). The accuracy of the estimates from the nDSM varied depending on the filter size and the conditions of the applied filter. This suggests that conditional filtering is useful but sensitive to the conditions.
Characterization of Quorum Sensing and Quorum Quenching Soil Bacteria Isolated from Malaysian Tropical Montane Forest
Authors: Chong Teik-Min , Koh Chong-Lek , Sam Choon-Kook , Choo Yeun-Mun , Yin Wai-Fong , Chan Kok-Gan
Published: April 2012

We report the production and degradation of quorum sensing N-acyl-homoserine lactones by bacteria isolated from Malaysian montane forest soil. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that these isolates clustered closely to the genera of Arthrobacter, Bacillus and Pseudomonas. Quorum quenching activity was detected in six isolates of these three genera by using a series of bioassays and rapid resolution liquid chromatography analysis. Biosensor screening and high resolution liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis revealed the production of N-dodecanoyl-L-homoserine lactone (C12-HSL) by Pseudomonas frederiksbergensis (isolate BT9). In addition to degradation of a wide range of N-acyl-homoserine lactones, Arthrobacter and Pseudomonas spp. also degraded p-coumaroyl-homoserine lactone. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first documentation of Arthrobacter and Pseudomonas spp. capable of degrading p-coumaroyl-homoserine lactone and the production of C12-HSL by P. frederiksbergensis.
Le moi dans le bouddhisme japonais
Authors: Girard Frédéric
Published: April 2012

Le but du présent article est de montrer ne quels termes se pose le problème du moi dans la pensée japonaise. Il n'existe pas à proprement parler de notion abstraite et neutre de moi ni de terme servant à la désigner dans la langue japonaise. On a fait appel, quand on a eu à rendre ce concept, à des termes qui sont, en substance, issue de la tradition bouddhique — ga et jiga dans l'ensemble des écoles bouddhiques, et jiko plus spécifiquement dans les écoles Zen — . Toutefois, ces notions du moi dans le bouddhisme japonais ont un import et des connotations sans commune mesure avec celle du moi dans notre tradition philosophique.

A travers une enquête procédant par coups de sonde parmi des textes représentatifs du bouddhisme japonais, on a cherché à mettre en évidence la touche propre de celui-ci en ce cjui concerne la notion du moi. Il l'analyse en plusieurs strates : l'ego limité, qu'il soit individuel ou social ; le non-moi, qui "évacue" le premier dans ce qu'il aurait d'égocentrique ou de réifié ; enfin la conscience profonde qui, tout en restant en elle-même, est capable de faire jouer au seconde degré une persona tournée vers l'extérieur. Bien qu'on réduise assez souvent cette position au deuxième stade de l'analyse, celui négatif du non-moi, c'est le troisième, celui du "vrai moi", qui en constitue le terme, car c'est bien, en effet, la quête d'un soi parachevé, qui est au centre des préoccupations de la pensée bouddhique japonaise, et que, par exemple, un philosophe comme Nishida Kitarô (1870-1945) a mise au centre de sa réflexion qui se situe au confluent de cette pensée et de celle de l'Occident.

Cette manière de considérer le moi s'accorde bien à une mentalité qui considère avant tout les choses moins "en soi" qu'en fonction de la situation et de la réalité présentes, au plan du phénoménal. Au lieu d'envisager le moi comme le point de départ absolu de ce qui constitue la personne, cette conception du moi débouche sur un "soi" de caractère transpersonnel. Ni hypostasié ni nié, il est en mesure de se réaliser dans le mouvant de la réalité.
Essai de lecture critique autour de l'innovation industrielle au Japon, présentation de quelques textes choisis
Authors: Jolivet Eric
Published: April 2012

L'objectif de ce texte est d'inviter le lecteur à aborder un certain nombre de questions sur le regard que les économistes occidentaux portent le plus souvent sur le Japon et son industrie. M'intéressant à l'innovation technologique dans les entreprises japonaises, j'ai été saisi, à la lecture d'une bibliographie sur le sujet, par la récurrence d'un leitmotiv. On voit très souvent affirmé que les entreprises japonaises auraient fondé leur stratégie sur l'imitation, ce qui est implicitement présente comme déloyal et peu glorieux, et que les japonais seraient par nature dénues de sens créatif. Dans le texte, je propose au lecteur d'explorer la question de savoir pourquoi un tel discours a été porte sur l'industrie japonaise. Je défends l'idée qu'à partir de tels préjugés, et mare si les discours tenus ont la saine apparence (mathématique) de la scientificité, on s'obscurcit soi-même la vue et on s'empêche fondamentalement de comprendre le fonctionnement de l'économie japonaise. En s'efforçant de saisir, au contraire, les phénomènes économiques nippons dans leur singularité, c'est-à-dire sans chercher à en rendre compte trop systématiquement par des catégories pré-construites, on gagne clairement en intelligibilité sur deux plans : d'une part, on comprend plus aisément les particularités de l'innovation japonaise et leur cohérence, d'autre part, on saisit mieux la relativité des catégories de pensée occidentales et les relations étroites que celles-ci entretiennent avec des pratiques industrielles observables dans nos pays.