bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oral applizierbare Nukleinsäuren gegen Entzündungen
Authors: Winckler Thomas
Published: August 2009

Der Nobelpreis für Physiologie oder Medizin ging im Jahr 2006 an die Forscher Andrew Z. Fire und Craig C. Mello für Ihre Entdeckung des so genannten “gene silencing” mit kleinen RNA‐Molekülen (siRNAs). Kann man diese fragilen siRNAs zu therapeutischen Zwecken oral applizieren?
Synthesis of biocompatible and biodegradable block copolymers of polyvinyl alcohol‐block‐poly(ε‐caprolactone) using metal‐free living cationic polymerization
Authors: Zaleska Izabela Magdalena , Kitagawa Masaru , Sugihara Shinji , Ikeda Isao
Published: August 2009

Applications of metal‐free living cationic polymerization of vinyl ethers using HCl·Et2O are reported. Product of poly(vinyl ether)s possessing functional end groups such as hydroxyethyl groups with predicted molecular weights was used as a macroinitiator in activated monomer cationic polymerization of ε‐caprolactone (CL) with HCl·Et2O as a ring‐opening polymerization. This combination method is a metal‐free polymerization using HCl·Et2O. The formation of poly(isobutyl vinyl ether)‐b‐poly(ε‐caprolactone) (PIBVE‐b‐PCL) and poly(tert‐butyl vinyl ether)‐b‐poly(ε‐caprolactone) (PTBVE‐b‐PCL) from two vinyl ethers and CL was successful. Therefore, we synthesized novel amphiphilic, biocompatible, and biodegradable block copolymers comprised polyvinyl alcohol and PCL, namely PVA‐b‐PCL by transformation of acid hydrolysis of tert‐butoxy moiety of PTBVE in PTBVE‐b‐PCL. The synthesized copolymers showed well‐defined structure and narrow molecular weight distribution. The structure of resulting block copolymers was confirmed by 1H NMR, size exclusion chromatography, and differential scanning calorimetry. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 47: 5169–5179, 2009
Identification of glial‐cell‐line‐derived neurotrophic factor‐regulated proteins of striatum in mouse model of Parkinson disease
Authors: Hong Zhen , Liu Jun , Xia Li , Pan Jing , Xiao Qin , Lu Guoqiang , Liang Liang , Chen Sheng‐Di
Published: August 2009

Glial‐cell‐line‐derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) is a potent survival factor for dopaminergic neurons, and hence serves as a therapeutic candidate for the treatment of Parkinson's disease. However, despite the potential clinical and physiological importance of GDNF, its mechanism of action is unclear. Therefore, we employed a state‐of‐the‐art proteomic technique, DIGE, along with MS and a bioinformatics tool called Database for Annotation, Visualization and Integrated Discovery (DAVID), to profile proteome changes in the parkinsonian mouse striatum after GDNF challenge. Forty‐six unique differentially expressed proteins were successfully identified, which were found either up‐regulated and/or down‐regulated at the two time points 4 and 72 h compared with the control. Proteins involved in cell differentiation and system development formed the largest part of the proteins regulated under GDNF. Furthermore, the aberrant expression of HSPs and mitochondria‐associated proteins were noticeable. Moreover, mitochondrial stress 70 protein and heat shock cognate 71 kDa protein, whose relative levels increased significantly in GDNF‐treated striatum, were further evaluated with Western blot and RT‐PCR, demonstrating a good agreement with quantitative proteomic data. These data will provide some clues for understanding the mechanisms by which GDNF promotes the survival of dopaminergic neurons.
Sources of urinary proteins and their analysis by urinary proteomics for the detection of biomarkers of disease
Authors: Julian Bruce A. , Suzuki Hitoshi , Suzuki Yusuke , Tomino Yasuhiko , Spasovski Goce , Novak Jan
Published: August 2009

Renal disorders account for a substantial fraction of the budget for health care in many countries. Proteinuria is a frequent manifestation in afflicted patients, but the origin of the proteins varies based on the nature of the disorder. The emerging field of urinary proteomics has the potential to replace kidney biopsy as the diagnostic procedure of choice for patients with some glomerular forms of renal disease. To fully realize this potential, it is vital to understand the basis for the urinary excretion of protein in physiological and pathological conditions. In this review, we discuss the structure of the nephron, the functional unit of the kidney, and the process by which proteins/peptides enter the urine. We discuss several aspects of proteinuria that impact the proteomic analysis of urine of patients with renal diseases.
Fibroblast protein profile analysis highlights the role of oxidative stress and vitamin K recycling in the pathogenesis of pseudoxanthoma elasticum
Authors: Boraldi Federica , Annovi Giulia , Guerra Deanna , Paolinelli DeVincenzi Chiara , Garcia‐Fernandez Maria Inmaculada , Panico Fulvio , De Santis Giorgio , Tiozzo Roberta , Ronchetti Ivonne , Quaglino Daniela
Published: August 2009

Pseudoxanthoma elasticum (PXE) is a genetic disorder associated to mutations in the ABCC6 gene; however, the pathogenetic mechanisms leading to elastic fibre calcifications and to clinical manifestations are still unknown. Dermal fibroblasts, directly involved in the production of the extracellular milieu, have been isolated from healthy subjects and from patients affected by PXE, cultured in vitro and characterized for their ability to produce reactive oxygen species, for structural and functional properties of their cell membranes, for changes in their protein profile. Data demonstrate that oxidative stress has profound and endurable consequences on PXE fibroblast phenotype being responsible for: reduced levels of global DNA methylation, increased amount of carbonylated proteins and of lipid peroxidation products, altered structural properties of cell membranes, modified protein expression. Data shed new light on the pathogenetic pathways in PXE, by identifying a network of proteins affecting elastic fibre calcification through inefficient vitamin K recycling, and highlight the role of differentially expressed proteins as targets for validating the efficacy of future therapeutic strategies aiming to delay and/or revert the pathologic phenotype of PXE fibroblasts. Moreover, data open new perspectives for investigating PXE‐like phenotypes in the absence of ABCC6 mutations.
Predictive value of PCA3 in urinary sediments in determining clinico‐pathological characteristics of prostate cancer
Authors: Hessels Daphne , van Gils Martijn P.M.Q. , van Hooij Onno , Jannink Sander A. , Witjes J. Alfred , Verhaegh Gerald W. , Schalken Jack A.
Published: August 2009

PURPOSE

PCA3 urine tests have shown to improve the specificity in prostate cancer (PCa) diagnosis, and have thus the potential to reduce the number of unnecessary prostate biopsies and to predict repeat biopsy outcomes. In this study, PCA3 was correlated with clinical stage, biopsy Gleason score (GS), radical prostatectomy GS, tumor volume, and pathological stage to assess its potential as predictor of PCa aggressiveness.

METHODS

In this study, 351 men admitted for prostate biopsies based on serum PSA levels >3 ng/ml, an abnormal DRE, and/or a family history of PCa were included. Post‐DRE urinary sediments from 336 men were tested using a transcription‐mediated amplification‐based PCA3 test, and assay results were correlated with clinical stage and biopsy GS. In a sub‐cohort of 70 men who underwent radical prostatectomy, the PCA3 values were correlated to their radical prostatectomy GS, tumor volume, and pathological stage.

RESULTS

In this patient cohort we could not find a correlation between clinical stage, biopsy GS, radical prostatectomy GS, tumor volume, and pathological stage.

CONCLUSIONS

The predictive value of PCA3 for PCa aggressiveness features as reported in earlier studies cannot be confirmed in our study. Experimental differences (urine sediments vs. whole urine) and cohort may explain this. The exact place of PCA3 as prognostic test for PCa remains the subject of investigation. Prostate 70: 10–16, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Low‐frequency capacitance–voltage study of hydrogen interaction with Pt–AlGaN/GaN Schottky barrier diodes
Authors: Irokawa Yoshihiro , Matsuki Nobuyuki , Sumiya Masatomo , Sakuma Yoshiki , Sekiguchi Takashi , Chikyo Toyohiro , Sumida Yasunobu , Nakano Yoshitaka
Published: August 2009

We have investigated the interaction of hydrogen with Pt–AlGaN/GaN Schottky barrier diodes (SBDs) using a low‐frequency capacitance–voltage (C –V) technique. At a frequency of 1 kHz, the C–V curve in hydrogen shifts toward negative bias values as compared with that in nitrogen. As the frequency decreases from 1 kHz to 1 Hz, the capacitance in hydrogen significantly increases and an oscillation of the capacitance is observed. These C–V characteristics are quite anomalous and have not been reported yet, suggesting the formation of an interfacial polarization which could be attributable to hydrogen‐related dipoles. The oscillation of the capacitance may be related to the alignment of the dipoles. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Growth temperature and plasma power effects on N incorporation in InSbN grown by molecular beam epitaxy
Authors: Lim K. P. , Pham H. T. , Yoon S. F. , Markwitz A. , Yakovlev N.
Published: August 2009

Dilute nitride InSbN alloys have been grown using radio frequency plasma‐assisted molecular beam epitaxy. The effects of low growth temperature (270–330 °C) and nitrogen plasma power (150–180 W) on the N incorporation were studied. From the X‐ray diffraction (XRD), secondary ion mass spectroscopy and the nuclear reaction analysis (14N(d,p5)15N), the highest ratio of substitutional NSb over the undesired interstitial N is yielded at the lower limit of 270 °C. Like NSb, a large amount of interstitial N–N also contribute to lattice contraction. Increasing the plasma power (180 W) results in a significant increase in interstitial N in [011] direction. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
A rapid screening method for prenylated flavonoids with ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography/electrospray ionisation mass spectrometry in licorice root extracts
Authors: Simons Rudy , Vincken Jean‐Paul , Bakx Edwin J. , Verbruggen Marian A. , Gruppen Harry
Published: August 2009

Due to their substitution with an isoprenoid group, prenylated flavonoids have an increased affinity for biological membranes and target proteins, enhancing their potential bioactivity. Although many prenylated flavonoids have been described, there are no methods that specifically screen for their presence in complex mixtures, prior to purification. We describe a method based on ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) with electrospray ionisation mass spectrometry (ESI‐MS) that allows rapid screening for prenylated flavonoids in multi‐component plant extracts. Identification of the prenylated flavonoids is based on screening for neutral losses of 42 u and 56 u in the positive‐ion mode MS2 and MS3 spectra within the MS chromatograms. In addition, this method discriminates between a prenyl chain and a ring‐closed prenyl (pyran ring), based on the ratio of the relative abundances of the ions that lose 42 u and 56 u (42:56). The application of this screening method on a 70% aq. ethanol, ethanol and ethyl acetate extract of the roots of Glycyrrhiza glabra indicated the presence of 70 mono‐ and di‐prenylated flavonoids. In addition, of each prenylated flavonoid the type of prenylation, chain or pyran ring was determined. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Macroscopic and Microscopic Effects of Radiofrequency Injury in the Porcine Tongue
Authors: Ge Norman N. , Schalch Paul , Senders Craig W.
Published: August 2009

OBJECTIVE

Current treatment protocols for obstructive sleep apnea/hypopnea syndrome with radiofrequency ablation of the base of the tongue are empiric. Injecting local anesthetics and saline into the treatment site is believed to shorten treatment duration and improve results. Our objective is to compare lesions at different energy levels, both macroscopically and histologically, and to determine if electrolyte solution injection results in a larger lesion.

STUDY DESIGN

A prospective, experimental animal study.

SETTING

University‐affiliated institution.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Five pigs each received four treatments on the right and four on the left side of the tongue. Three of four treatments were applied sequentially by increasing length of exposure (15, 30, or 60 seconds), and the fourth was conducted over 15 seconds after injecting 1 cc of a 1:1 local anesthetic‐saline solution into the treatment site. The animals were recovered for three days and then sacrificed. Macroscopic measurements for each lesion were analyzed, and histological comparison was performed.

RESULTS

The average volume of the lesions was 57.36, 65.18, and 60.50 mm3 for treatment durations of 60, 30, and 15 seconds, respectively, and there was no significant difference. Lesion volume at sites where anesthetic‐saline was injected had a mean volume of 36.72 mm3. Paired comparison against the three treatment durations revealed significantly smaller lesion volume size (P = 0.0041, 0.0007, 0.0047, respectively).

CONCLUSION

The lesions created with radiofrequency energy were consistent and predictable. The volumes of the lesions did not differ significantly with regard to different energy levels. The lesion was significantly smaller after injection of anestheticsaline at the treatment site.
Our Initial Experience of the Transaxillary Totally Endoscopic Approach for Hemithyroidectomy
Authors: Chang Eugene H. , Lobe Thom E. , Wright Simon K.
Published: August 2009

OBJECTIVE

To report our initial experience with the transaxillary totally endoscopic (TATE) approach to the thyroid gland.

STUDY DESIGN

A historic cohort study of patients undergoing TATE procedures compared with open procedures for hemi‐thyroidectomy with isthmusectomy.

SETTING

Private‐practice otolaryngology group.

SUBJECT AND METHODS

Patients selected for benign thyroid disease confirmed by fine‐needle aspiration and requiring hemithyroidectomy with isthmusectomy. A historic cohort study of 24 patients who underwent TATE procedures for hemithyroidectomy with isthmusectomy. Comparison of the first 10 TATE approaches to a control group of 10 consecutive open approaches by the senior author's group.

RESULTS

All 24 TATE patients were successful without the need to convert to an open procedure. The TATE approach had longer operative times than the open group (142 vs 105), but these operative times decreased as the number of procedures increased (first five TATE = 170, last five TATE = 114, n = 24, average = 114). No patients had peri‐ or postoperative complications.

CONCLUSIONS

The TATE approach to the thyroid gland is safe and effective. Operative time is longer but decreases with experience. The TATE approach is one option to treat young patients with unilateral benign thyroid disease who are seeking to avoid visible scars and limit morbidity.
Advanced Approaches for Thyroid Surgery
Authors: Kuppersmith Ronald B. , Salem Ahmed , Holsinger F. Christopher
Published: August 2009

Over the past several years, new surgical approaches to the thyroid have been described, and efforts to further refine thyroid surgery continue. These new approaches can be classified by the anatomic location that access is obtained and whether CO2 insufflation is necessary for the procedure to be performed. While these new approaches provide the potential for exciting innovation, more work should be done to refine some of these techniques and study the implications of adopting them from the perspective of patient outcomes and cost.
Topical Sucralfate in Post‐Adenotonsillectomy Analgesia in Children
Authors: Miura Mauricio Schreiner , Saleh Catia , de Andrade Marina , Assmann Melina , Ayres Marcio , Neto José Faibes Lubianca
Published: August 2009

OBJECTIVES

Tonsillectomy, with or without adenoidectomy, is one of the most common surgical procedures in pediatric otolaryngology. Despite its relative simplicity, pain is the main cause of morbidity in the postoperative period. We determined the effect of topical sucralfate on reduction of oropharyngeal pain in children submitted to adenotonsillectomy. Secondary outcomes were otalgia, analgesic use, type of diet, secondary bleeding, vomiting, fever, and weight loss.

STUDY DESIGN

Double‐blind, randomized clinical trial.

SETTING

Tertiary hospital.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Eighty‐two children of both sexes between four and 12 years old submitted to adenotonsillectomy were evaluated. They were allocated to receive topical sucralfate or placebo in intraoperative and postoperative periods four times a day for five days. Pain was measured through faces pain scale.

RESULTS

Reduction in oropharyngeal pain was significant with use of sucralfate during five days of evaluation (mean, 95% confidence interval, and P value); day 1: 2.05, 1.53–2.58, P = 0.000; day 2: 2.1, 1.51–2.70, P = 0.001; day 3: 1.44, 0.88–1.99, P = 0.003; day 4: 1.13, 0.58–1.55, P = 0.027; day 5: 0.67, 0.26–1.04, P = 0.021). There was no difference in secondary outcomes.

CONCLUSION

We found beneficial effect of use of sucralfate in reduction of oropharyngeal pain in the postoperative period of adenotonsillectomy. However, topical sucralfate does not have a potent effect to the point of being utilized as a single analgesic treatment. Because it is simple, safe, tolerated, and low‐cost, it is an important tool as adjuvant treatment of post‐tonsillectomy pain.
Prevalence and Reliability of Self‐Reported Authorship Disclosures in Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery
Authors: Bhattacharyya Neil , Lin Harrison W.
Published: August 2009

OBJECTIVE

Determine reliability of self‐reported authorship disclosures of potential conflicts of interest in American Academy of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery Foundation (AAO‐HNSF)–sponsored presentations and publications.

STUDY DESIGN/SETTING

Retrospective cohort study at academic center.

METHODS

Presenters' self‐reported disclosures made at the AAO‐HNSF annual meeting for calendar years 2006 and 2007 were tabulated. Subsequent publications related to these presentations in the journal Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery were analyzed with respect to disclosures revealed at the time of publication. Discrepancies between annual meeting disclosures and publication print disclosures were identified according to author and presentation/paper. Reliability statistics were computed to determine consistency of disclosure reporting and an analysis of potential conflicts of interest according to discrepancies was performed.

RESULTS

Five hundred seventy‐eight presenters' disclosures were identified at the annual meeting level, which ultimately led to 153 journal publications. A total of 51 authors (8.8%) with disclosure reporting discrepancies were identified (32 authors: one discrepancy; 11 authors: two discrepancies; eight authors: three or more discrepancies). Overall, a mean of 0.14 discrepancies per author (95% confidence interval: 0.10–0.19 discrepancies) was noted. Analyzed by publication, 39 papers (25.5%) contained one or more disclosure discrepancies among authors, ranging from one discrepancy (11.8% of papers) to nine discrepancies (0.7%), with an average of 2.1 authorship disclosure discrepancies per paper.

CONCLUSIONS

A significant percentage of authors' disclosures differ between time of presentation and subsequent publication within otolaryngology. Although valid reasons for these discrepancies may exist, analysis of these discrepancies is important for conflict‐of‐interest determination.
Effect of Microporous Polysaccharide Hemospheres (MPH) on Bleeding after Endoscopic Sinus Surgery
Authors: Antisdel Jastin L. , West‐Denning Jackie L. , Sindwani Raj
Published: August 2009

OBJECTIVES

Absorbable hemostatic agents are commonly used after endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS). MPH (microporous polysaccharide hemospheres) is a novel hemostatic powder that is rapidly absorbed. The goal of this study was to examine the effects of MPH on bleeding after ESS.

STUDY DESIGN

Randomized, controlled, single‐blinded.

SETTING

Tertiary university hospital.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Patients undergoing bilateral (symmetric) ESS for CRS by the same surgeon were randomized to unilateral treatment with MPH at surgical conclusion. The untreated opposite side served as a control. All patients received standard postoperative management. Patients completed symptom diaries using visual analog scales (VAS, scored out of 100) at baseline and through postoperative day (POD) 30. Outcomes including bleeding, pain, obstruction, and nasal discharge were recorded separately for left and right sides.

RESULTS

Forty patients (19 men, 21 women) with an average age of 48.3 years were included. There were no complications, and all patients were discharged home the same day. The mean bleeding score on POD one for MPH‐treated sides was 22.5 vs 39.0 for untreated controls (mean reduction 16.5, P < 0.0001, 95% CI −23.2 to −9.7). The scores for bleeding at baseline and at all other post‐treatment days were not significantly different (P > 0.05). There were no other significant differences between MPH‐treated and control sides in any other variables measured.

CONCLUSION

The use of MPH after ESS results in significantly less bleeding in the early postoperative period with no increase in pain, obstruction, or nasal discharge. Patients treated with MPH follow a normal postoperative recovery otherwise.
Acute effects of different types of oil consumption on endothelial function, oxidative stress status and vascular inflammation in healthy volunteers
Authors: Tousoulis Dimitris , Papageorgiou Nikolaos , Antoniades Charalambos , Giolis Anastasios , Bouras George , Gounari Panagiota , Stefanadi Elli , Miliou Antigoni , Psaltopoulou Theodora , Stefanadis Christodoulos
Published: August 2009

Consumption of different types of oil may have different effects on cardiovascular risk. The exact role of maize oil, cod liver oil, soya oil and extra virgin olive oil on endothelial function, oxidative stress and inflammation is unknown. We evaluated the effect of acute consumption of these types of oil on endothelial function, oxidative stress and inflammation in healthy adults. Thirty-seven healthy volunteers were randomised to receive an oral amount of each type of oil or water. Endothelial function was evaluated by gauge-strain plethysmography at baseline and 1, 2 and 3 h after consumption. Oxidative stress status was determined by total lipid peroxides (PEROX), while inflammatory process was estimated by measuring the soluble form of vascular adhesion molecule 1. Serum levels of the two previous markers were measured at baseline and 3 h after oil consumption. Reactive hyperaemia (RH) was significantly decreased after maize oil consumption compared with controls (P < 0·05). However, the consumption of cod liver oil and soya oil induced a significant improvement of RH after 1 h, compared with controls (P < 0·05). There was no significant effect of any type of oil consumption on endothelium-independent dilatation, total lipid PEROX and vascular adhesion molecule 1 serum levels. Consumption of maize oil leads to impaired endothelial function, while soya oil and cod liver oil slightly improve endothelial function. However, all types of oils did not affect inflammatory process and systemic oxidative stress, suggesting that their effect on endothelial function may not be mediated by free radicals bioavailability.
Zebrafish (Danio rerio) as a model for investigating the safety of GM feed ingredients (soya and maize); performance, stress response and uptake of dietary DNA sequences
Authors: Sissener Nini H. , Johannessen Lene E. , Hevrøy Ernst M. , Wiik-Nielsen Christer R. , Berdal Knut G. , Nordgreen Andreas , Hemre Gro-Ingunn
Published: August 2009

A 20-d zebrafish (Danio rerio) feeding trial, in which a near doubling of fish weight was achieved, was conducted with GM feed ingredients to evaluate feed intake, growth, stress response and uptake of dietary DNA. A partial aim of the study was to assess zebrafish as a model organism in GM safety assessments. Roundup Ready®soya (RRS®), YieldGard®Bt maize (MON810) and their non-modified, maternal, near-isogenic lines were used in a 2 × 2 factorial design. Soya variety and maize variety were the main factors, both with two levels; non-GM and GM. Compared with fish fed non-GM maize, those fed GM maize exhibited significantly better growth, had lower mRNA transcription levels ofsuperoxide dismutase (SOD)-1and a tendency (non-significant) towards lower transcription ofheat shock protein 70in liver. Sex of the fish and soya variety had significant interaction effects on total RNA yield from the whole liver and transcription ofSOD-1, suggesting that some diet component affecting males and females differently was present in different levels in the GM and the non-GM soya used in the present study. Dietary DNA sequences were detected in all of the organs analysed, but not all of the samples. Soya and maizerubisco(non-transgenic, multicopy genes) were most frequently detected, while MON810 transgenic DNA fragments were detected in some samples and RRS®fragments were not detected. In conclusion, zebrafish shows promise as a model for this application.
Review Article: Citizens, Presidents and Assemblies: The Study of Semi-Presidentialism beyond Duverger and Linz
Authors: Schleiter Petra , Morgan-Jones Edward
Published: August 2009

Semi-presidential regimes have attracted increasing attention from scholars and constitutional reformers over the last quarter century. Yet, despite this popularity, there is no consensus on how to understand this constitutional format. Since Duverger defined semi-presidentialism as a ‘new political system model’, and Linz argued that the constitutional format shares many of the ‘perils of presidentialism’, subsequent research has questioned the conceptual status of semi-presidentialism as a distinct regime type, and whether it has any distinct effects on politics. In this article we review the progress of recent work on semi-presidentialism and suggest that the conceptual tools to clarify some of the major debates in the field are now available in the form of principal–agent theoretical work on democratic constitutions.
Agrarian Capitalism and Rural Labour: The Hacienda System in Central Chile, 1870–1920
Authors: ROBLES-ORTIZ CLAUDIO
Published: August 2009

Using a variety of new sources directly pertaining to different types of rural estate, and contrary to interpretations of rural Chile as a traditional society unaffected by economic modernisation, this article analyses the transition of the hacienda system in central Chile towards agrarian capitalism during the period of export-led growth from the 1860s to 1930. It argues that the expansion of the ‘landowner enterprise’, along with developments in mechanisation and irrigation, resulted in the marginalisation of the precarious ‘peasant enterprises’ operated by tenants and the gradual proletarianisation of the agricultural workforce. The development of agrarian capitalism transformed the collective action of rural workers, which assumed modern forms such as strikes and unionisation, and thus became significant in national politics. The first wave of rural conflicts, which took place in the early 1920s, can therefore be understood as the response of the emerging rural working class to the agrarian expansion that Chile experienced as part of the process of capitalist modernisation.
Halocladius variabilis(Diptera: Chironomidae): a marine insect symbiotic with seaweeds from the White Sea, Russia
Authors: Tarakhovskaya Elena R. , Garbary David J.
Published: August 2009

The commensal (and possibly mutualistic) symbiosis between the marine chironomid,Halocladius variabilis, and brown algal epiphytes ofFucus vesiculosusandAscophyllum nodosumis described for the first time from Europe, based on field studies from the White Sea, Russia. While the primary host,Elachista fucicola, and the secondary host,A. nodosum, are the same as in eastern Canada where the symbiosis was first described, White Sea populations have a wider range of primary hosts that includePylaiella littoralisandDictyosiphon foeniculaceus. About 64% ofE. fucicolathalli onA. nodosumin the low intertidal zone were colonized. Significantly lower frequencies were found onE. fucicolawhen the latter was epiphytic onF. vesiculosusat the same tidal height or on either secondary host when they were in the subtidal zone. For a given tidal height, or secondary host, frequency ofH. variabiliswas reduced onP. littoralisand further reduced onD. foeniculaceus. We suggest that subtidal populations are colonized by dispersal of larvae from the intertidal zone on to suitable substrata, and that there is limited potential for these individuals to reach the intertidal zone as adults for reproduction.
LANGUAGE AND DEMENTIA: NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL ASPECTS
Authors: Kempler Daniel , Goral Mira
Published: August 2009

This article reviews recent evidence for the relationship between extralinguistic cognitive and language abilities in dementia. A survey of data from investigations of three dementia syndromes (Alzheimer's disease, semantic dementia and progressive nonfluent aphasia) reveals that, more often than not, deterioration of conceptual organization appears associated with lexical impairments, whereas impairments in executive function are associated with sentence- and discourse-level deficits. These connections between extralinguistic functions and language ability also emerge from the literature on cognitive reserve and bilingualism that investigates factors that delay the onset and possibly the progression of neuropsychological manifestation of dementia.
LANGUAGE AND DEMENTIA: SOCIOLINGUISTIC ASPECTS
Authors: Hamilton Heidi E.
Published: August 2009

This review of sociolinguistic aspects of language and dementia focuses on studies that (1) examine naturally occurring language with attention to variation that relates to speakers' cognitive or sociocultural attributes or to dimensions of the communicative context, (2) provide a nuanced understanding of individuals with dementia or contexts of communication that may illuminate sociolinguistic analyses, or (3) call for sociolinguistic investigations to clarify or provide additional evidence for a particular finding outside of linguistics. Structured from the global to the local levels, the review begins with literature that frames the study of language and dementia from the societal or cultural perspective, focusing on public discourse relating to dementia and Alzheimer's disease. Studies that shed light on social activities and physical environments are addressed next as possible influences on the shape of the discourse. Finally, investigations of verbal and nonverbal aspects of discourse produced by and with individuals with dementia are reviewed. Ideas for future research are outlined along with a call for increased cross-disciplinary cooperation among researchers who work at the intersection of language, dementia, and society.
SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGICAL ASPECTS OF COMMUNICATION AND AGING
Authors: Savundranayagam Marie Y. , Ryan Ellen Bouchard
Published: August 2009

Language plays an important role in defining identities in older adulthood. Both self-perception and others' perceptions of older adults are reflected through language used by older and younger adults (see recent texts: de Bot & Makoni, 2005; Harwood, 2007; Hummert & Nussbaum, 2001; Nussbaum & Coupland, 2004). In this review, we outline key theoretical perspectives on the study of communication with older adults and provide evidence supporting these perspectives within the context of age stereotypes, intergenerational communication, cross-cultural communication, and health care encounters. Given that communication is an interactive process, we discuss how older adults use language and communication to respond to age stereotypes and adaptively cope with age-related losses. We also discuss communication interventions aimed at improving interactions between care providers and older adults, and opportunities that technology brings to enhance communication within and across generations.
The response dynamics of primate visual cortical neurons to simulated optical blur
Authors: RISNER MICHAEL L. , GAWNE TIMOTHY J.
Published: August 2009

Neurons in visual cortical area V1 typically respond well to lines or edges of specific orientations. There have been many studies investigating how the responses of these neurons to an oriented edge are affected by changes in luminance contrast. However, in natural images, edges vary not only in contrast but also in the degree of blur, both because of changes in focus and also because shadows are not sharp. The effect of blur on the response dynamics of visual cortical neurons has not been explored. We presented luminance-defined single edges in the receptive fields of parafoveal (1–6 deg eccentric) V1 neurons of two macaque monkeys trained to fixate a spot of light. We varied the width of the blurred region of the edge stimuli up to 0.36 deg of visual angle. Even though the neurons responded robustly to stimuli that only contained high spatial frequencies and 0.36 deg is much larger than the limits of acuity at this eccentricity, changing the degree of blur had minimal effect on the responses of these neurons to the edge. Primates need to measure blur at the fovea to evaluate image quality and control accommodation, but this might only involve a specialist subpopulation of neurons. If visual cortical neurons in general responded differently to sharp and blurred stimuli, then this could provide a cue for form perception, for example, by helping to disambiguate the luminance edges created by real objects from those created by shadows. On the other hand, it might be important to avoid the distraction of changing blur as objects move in and out of the plane of fixation. Our results support the latter hypothesis: the responses of parafoveal V1 neurons are largely unaffected by changes in blur over a wide range.
German fricatives: coda devoicing or positional faithfulness?
Authors: Beckman Jill , Jessen Michael , Ringen Catherine
Published: August 2009

In this paper we show how Jessen & Ringen's (2002) analysis of voicing in German stops can be extended to account for the voicing of German fricatives. It is argued that while stops in German contrast for the feature [spread glottis], fricatives contrast for [voice] (and [spread glottis]). Our analysis, which involves presonorant faithfulness, is compared to an analysis with coda devoicing. We show that the two analyses make crucially different predictions, and present experimental evidence in support of the presonorant faithfulness analysis. The experimental results show considerable variation, which can be accommodated in our OT analysis.
Acquiring and Refining CBT Skills and Competencies: Which Training Methods are Perceived to be Most Effective?
Authors: Bennett-Levy James , McManus Freda , Westling Bengt E. , Fennell Melanie
Published: August 2009

Background: A theoretical and empirical base for CBT training and supervision has started to emerge. Increasingly sophisticated maps of CBT therapist competencies have recently been developed, and there is evidence that CBT training and supervision can produce enhancement of CBT skills. However, the evidence base suggesting which specific training techniques are most effective for the development of CBT competencies is lacking. Aims: This paper addresses the question: What training or supervision methods are perceived by experienced therapists to be most effective for training CBT competencies? Method: 120 experienced CBT therapists rated which training or supervision methods in their experience had been most effective in enhancing different types of therapy-relevant knowledge or skills. Results: In line with the main prediction, it was found that different training methods were perceived to be differentially effective. For instance, reading, lectures/talks and modelling were perceived to be most useful for the acquisition of declarative knowledge, while enactive learning strategies (role-play, self-experiential work), together with modelling and reflective practice, were perceived to be most effective in enhancing procedural skills. Self-experiential work and reflective practice were seen as particularly helpful in improving reflective capability and interpersonal skills. Conclusions: The study provides a framework for thinking about the acquisition and refinement of therapist skills that may help trainers, supervisors and clinicians target their learning objectives with the most effective training strategies.
Post-traumatic amnesia and the nature of post-traumatic stress disorder after mild traumatic brain injury
Authors: BRYANT RICHARD A. , CREAMER MARK , O’DONNELL MEAGHAN , SILOVE DERRICK , CLARK C. RICHARD , MCFARLANE ALEXANDER C.
Published: August 2009

The prevalence and nature of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) following mild traumatic brain injury (MTBI) is controversial because of the apparent paradox of suffering PTSD with impaired memory for the traumatic event. In this study, 1167 survivors of traumatic injury (MTBI: 459, No TBI: 708) were assessed for PTSD symptoms and post-traumatic amnesia during hospitalization, and were subsequently assessed for PTSD 3 months later (N = 920). At the follow-up assessment, 90 (9.4%) patients met criteria for PTSD (MTBI: 50, 11.8%; No-TBI: 40, 7.5%); MTBI patients were more likely to develop PTSD than no-TBI patients, after controlling for injury severity (adjusted odds ratio: 1.86; 95% confidence interval, 1.78–2.94). Longer post-traumatic amnesia was associated with less severe intrusive memories at the acute assessment. These findings indicate that PTSD may be more likely following MTBI, however, longer post-traumatic amnesia appears to be protective against selected re-experiencing symptoms. (JINS, 2009, 15, 862–867.)
SOLVING THE UNIT ROOT PROBLEM IN MODELS WITH AN EXOGENOUS WORLD MARKET INTEREST RATE
Authors: Atolia Manoj , Buffie Edward F.
Published: August 2009

The standard model of the small open economy is burdened with a unit root that greatly complicates numerical computation of the global saddle path. In this paper we solve the unit root problem by developing a set of innovative forward-shooting algorithms. Exploiting the fact that the algorithms are mechanical and model-free, we have placed canned, fully automated programs in the public domain. The programs do not require any substantive human input. The user's only responsibility is to type in the equations of the model correctly.
An ecological analysis of factors associated with food insecurity in South Australia, 2002–7
Authors: Foley Wendy , Ward Paul , Carter Patricia , Coveney John , Tsourtos George , Taylor Anne
Published: August 2009

Objective

To estimate the extent of food insecurity in South Australia and its relationship with a variety of socio-economic variables.

Design

Data collected routinely from 2002 to 2007 by SA Health were analysed to explore food security in the State’s population. An ecological analysis of data collected by the South Australian Monitoring and Surveillance System (SAMSS) that collects data on key health indicators. Questions on food security are asked periodically from July 2002 to December 2007.

Setting

South Australia.

Subjects

Over 37 000 interviewees took part in SAMSS surveys. Questions about food security were asked of 19 037 subjects. The sample was weighted by area, age and gender so that the results were representative of the South Australian population.

Results

Seven per cent (1342/19 037) of subjects reported running out of food during the previous year and not having enough money to buy food (food insecurity). Logistic regression analysis found food insecurity to be highest in households with low levels of education, limited capacity to save money, Aboriginal households, and households with three or more children.

Conclusions

The study confirms that food insecurity is strongly linked to economic disadvantage. Increasing cost of food is likely to exacerbate food insecurity. This is of concern given that food insecurity is associated with poor health, especially obesity and chronic disease. Comprehensive action at all levels is required to address root causes of food insecurity. Regular surveillance is required to continue to monitor levels of food security, but more in-depth understandings, via qualitative research, would be useful.
Iron status in pregnant women in the Republic of Seychelles
Authors: Duffy Emeir M , Bonham Maxine P , Wallace Julie MW , Chang Chin-Kuo , Robson Paula J , Myers Gary J , Davidson Philip W , Clarkson Thomas W , Shamlaye Conrad F , Strain JJ
Published: August 2009

Objective

To establish the Fe status of pregnant women and their neonates in the Republic of Seychelles.

Design

A prospective study.

Setting

Republic of Seychelles.

Subjects

Pregnant women were recruited and blood samples taken at enrolment and post-delivery along with cord blood samples. Ferritin and soluble transferrin receptor (sTfR) were measured in maternal (n220) and cord blood (n123) samples.

Results

Maternal Fe deficiency (ferritin < 15 ng/ml, sTfR > 28 nmol/l) was present in 6 % of subjects at enrolment and in 20 % at delivery. There was no significant decrease in maternal ferritin. A significant increase in sTfR was observed between enrolment and delivery (P< 0·001). Maternal BMI and use of Fe supplements at 28 weeks’ gestation were associated with improved maternal Fe status at delivery, whereas parity had a negative effect on sTfR and ferritin at delivery.

Conclusions

Fe status of pregnant Seychellois women was, on average, within normal ranges. The incidence of Fe deficiency throughout pregnancy in this population was similar to that in a Westernised population. Increased awareness of the importance of adequate Fe intake during pregnancy, particularly in multiparous women, is warranted.
Leaf concentrate as an alternative to iron and folic acid supplements for anaemic adolescent girls: a randomised controlled trial in India
Authors: Vyas Swati , Collin Simon M , Bertin Eric , Davys Glyn J , Mathur Beena
Published: August 2009

Objective

Despite public health campaigns based on Fe and folic acid supplements, Fe-deficiency anaemia remains highly prevalent among women in India. We investigated leaf concentrate as an alternative to Fe and folic acid supplements for treating anaemia in adolescent girls.

Design

Randomised controlled two-arm trial over 3 months: one group received daily Fe and folic acid (IFA; 60 mg Fe, 500 μg folic acid); the other daily leaf concentrate (LC; 5 mg Fe, 13 μg folic acid). Hb concentration, mean cell volume, serum Fe, serum ferritin and total Fe-binding capacity were measured pre- and post-intervention.

Setting

Jaipur, India.

Subjects

One hundred and two adolescent girls aged 14–18 years.

Results

Of the 102 girls randomized to the two arms of the trial, four (3·9 %) were severely anaemic (Hb < 7 g/dl), twenty-eight (27·5 %) were moderately anaemic (Hb ≥ 7 g/dl, <10 g/dl) and seventy (68·6 %) were mildly anaemic (Hb ≥ 10 g/dl, <12 g/dl). In the IFA group, eleven girls (20·4 %) withdrew due to side-effects, compared with one girl (2·1 %) in the LC group (P = 0·005). Total losses to follow-up were 14/54 in the IFA group and 2/48 in the LC group. At the end of the trial, none of the eighty-six remaining girls were severely anaemic, nine (10·5 %) were moderately anaemic and twenty-six (30·2 %) were mildly anaemic; fifty-one (59·3 %) had normal Hb levels (≥12 g/dl). After adjustment for baseline values, LC was as effective as IFA in improving serum Fe parameters and treating anaemia.

Conclusions

Leaf concentrate is an effective, and more palatable, alternative to Fe and folic acid supplements for treating anaemia in adolescent girls.
Knowledge, attitudes and potential response to menu labelling in an urban public health clinic population
Authors: Piron Jennifer , Smith Lisa V , Simon Paul , Cummings Patricia L , Kuo Tony
Published: August 2009

Objective

The present study examines the receptivity to and potential effects of menu labelling on food choices of low-income and minority individuals – a group often at disproportionate risk for preventable, lifestyle-related health conditions (e.g. obesity, diabetes and CVD).

Design

We conducted a cross-sectional survey to examine the knowledge, attitudes and potential response to menu labelling in an urban public health clinic population.

Setting

United States.

Subjects

A total of 639 clinic patients were recruited in the waiting rooms of six, large public health centres in Los Angeles County (2007–2008). These centres provide services to a largely uninsured or under-insured, low-income, Latino and African-American population.

Results

Among those approached and who met eligibility criteria, 88 % completed the survey. Of the 639 respondents, 55 % were overweight or obese based on self-reported heights and weights; 74 % reported visiting a fast food restaurant at least once in the past year, including 22 % at least once a week; 93 % thought that calorie information was ‘important’; and 86 % thought that restaurants should be required to post calorie information on their menu boards. In multivariate analyses, respondents who were obese, female, Latino and supportive of calorie postings were more likely than others to report that they would choose food and beverages with lower calories as a result of menu labelling.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that clinic patients are receptive to this population-based strategy and that they would be inclined to change their food selections in response to menu labelling.
Effectiveness of an educational intervention on complementary feeding practices and growth in rural China: a cluster randomised controlled trial
Authors: Shi Ling , Zhang Jingxu , Wang Yan , Caulfield Laura E , Guyer Bernard
Published: August 2009

Objective

Inappropriate complementary feeding is one of the major causes of malnutrition in young children in developing countries. We developed an educational intervention, delivered by local health-care providers, aimed at improving complementary feeding practices and child nutrition.

Design

Eight townships in Laishui, a rural area in China, were randomly assigned to the educational intervention or control group. A total of 599 healthy infants were enrolled at age 2–4 months and followed up until 1 year of age. In the intervention group, educational messages and enhanced home-prepared recipes were disseminated to caregivers through group trainings and home visits. Questionnaire surveys and anthropometric measurements were taken at baseline and ages 6, 9 and 12 months. Analysis was by intention to treat.

Results

It was found that food diversity, meal frequency and hygiene practices were improved in the intervention group. Infants in the intervention group gained 0·22 kg more weight (95 % CI 0·003, 0·45 kg,P= 0·047) and gained 0·66 cm more length (95 % CI 0·03, 1·29 cm,P= 0·04) than did controls over the study period.

Conclusions

Findings from the study suggest that an educational intervention delivered through local health-care providers can lead to substantial behavioural changes of caregivers and improve infant growth.
Free Movement, Immigration Control and Constitutional Conflict
Authors: Peers Steve
Published: August 2009

European Court of Justice decision of 25 July 2008, Case C-127/08, Metock et al. v. Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform – EU citizens and their third-country family members – ECJ largely reverses Akrich case-law – Dividing line between national and Community competences on immigration – ‘Reverse discrimination’ not a matter of concern for Community law – Analysis of repercussions of decision on EU and national legal orders
The Role of European Courts in the Development of a Hierarchy of Norms within International Law: Evidence of Constitutionalisation?
Authors: de Wet Erika
Published: August 2009

Constitutionalism – Kadi ruling of EU Court of First Instance – Erosion of ‘total’ constitutional order by reallocation of public power – Constitutional vision challenge of networks approach – Emerging human rights hierarchy – Rudimentary international value system – Ius cogens and erga omnes – Barcelona Traction – Core human rights elements – Enforcement through regional and domestic courts – Review of Security Council resolutions