bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A genome-wide analysis reveals that the Drosophila transcription factor Lola promotes axon growth in part by suppressing expression of the actin nucleation factor Spire
Authors: Gates Michael A , Kannan Ramakrishnan , Giniger Edward
Published: December 2011

Background

The phylogenetically conserved transcription factor Lola is essential for many aspects of axon growth and guidance, synapse formation and neural circuit development in Drosophila. To date it has been difficult, however, to obtain an overall view of Lola functions and mechanisms.

Results

We use expression microarrays to identify the lola-dependent transcriptome in the Drosophila embryo. We find that lola regulates the expression of a large selection of genes that are known to affect each of several lola-dependent developmental processes. Among other loci, we find lola to be a negative regulator of spire, an actin nucleation factor that has been studied for its essential role in oogenesis. We show that spire is expressed in the nervous system and is required for a known lola-dependent axon guidance decision, growth of ISNb motor axons. We further show that reducing spire gene dosage suppresses this aspect of the lola phenotype, verifying that derepression of spire is an important contributor to the axon stalling phenotype of embryonic motor axons in lola mutants.

Conclusions

These data shed new light on the molecular mechanisms of many lola-dependent processes, and also identify several developmental processes not previously linked to lola that are apt to be regulated by this transcription factor. These data further demonstrate that excessive expression of the actin nucleation factor Spire is as deleterious for axon growth in vivo as is the loss of Spire, thus highlighting the need for a balance in the elementary steps of actin dynamics to achieve effective neuronal morphogenesis.
Using Clickers to Facilitate Development of Problem-Solving Skills
Authors: Levesque Aime A.
Published: December 2011

Classroom response systems, or clickers, have become pedagogical staples of the undergraduate science curriculum at many universities. In this study, the effectiveness of clickers in promoting problem-solving skills in a genetics class was investigated. Students were presented with problems requiring application of concepts covered in lecture and were polled for the correct answer. A histogram of class responses was displayed, and students were encouraged to discuss the problem, which enabled them to better understand the correct answer. Students were then presented with a similar problem and were again polled. My results indicate that those students who were initially unable to solve the problem were then able to figure out how to solve similar types of problems through a combination of trial and error and class discussion. This was reflected in student performance on exams, where there was a statistically significant positive correlation between grades and the percentage of clicker questions answered. Interestingly, there was no clear correlation between exam grades and the percentage of clicker questions answered correctly. These results suggest that students who attempt to solve problems in class are better equipped to solve problems on exams.
GCAT-SEEKquence: Genome Consortium for Active Teaching of Undergraduates through Increased Faculty Access to Next-Generation Sequencing Data
Authors: Buonaccorsi Vincent P. , Boyle Michael D. , Grove Deborah , Praul Craig , Sakk Eric , Stuart Ash , Tobin Tammy , Hosler Jay , Carney Susan L. , Engle Michael J. , Overton Barry E. , Newman Jeffrey D. , Pizzorno Marie , Powell Jennifer R. , Trun Nancy
Published: December 2011

To transform undergraduate biology education, faculty need to provide opportunities for students to engage in the process of science. The rise of research approaches using next-generation (NextGen) sequencing has been impressive, but incorporation of such approaches into the undergraduate curriculum remains a major challenge. In this paper, we report proceedings of a National Science Foundation–funded workshop held July 11–14, 2011, at Juniata College. The purpose of the workshop was to develop a regional research coordination network for undergraduate biology education (RCN/UBE). The network is collaborating with a genome-sequencing core facility located at Pennsylvania State University (University Park) to enable undergraduate students and faculty at small colleges to access state-of-the-art sequencing technology. We aim to create a database of references, protocols, and raw data related to NextGen sequencing, and to find innovative ways to reduce costs related to sequencing and bioinformatics analysis. It was agreed that our regional network for NextGen sequencing could operate more effectively if it were partnered with the Genome Consortium for Active Teaching (GCAT) as a new arm of that consortium, entitled GCAT-SEEK(quence). This step would also permit the approach to be replicated elsewhere.
Mechanisms of sex disparities in influenza pathogenesis
Authors: Klein Sabra L , Hodgson Andrea , Robinson Dionne P
Published: December 2011

Review on gender-associated immune responses to influenza viruses, which though protective following vaccination, can cause immunopathology following exposure to pathogenic viruses.

Epidemiological evidence from influenza outbreaks and pandemics reveals that morbidity and mortality are often higher for women than men. Sex differences in the outcome of influenza are age-dependent, often being most pronounced among adults of reproductive ages (18–49 years of age) and sometimes reflecting the unique state of pregnancy in females, which is a risk factor for severe disease. Small animal models of influenza virus infection illustrate that inflammatory immune responses also differ between the sexes and impact the outcome of infection, with females generating higher proinflammatory cytokine and chemokine responses and experiencing greater morbidity and mortality than males. Males and females also respond differently to influenza vaccines, with women initiating higher humoral immune responses but experiencing more adverse reactions to seasonal influenza vaccines than men. Small animal models further show that elevated immunity following vaccination in females leads to greater cross-protection against novel influenza viruses in females compared with males. Sex steroid hormones, including estradiol and testosterone, as well as genetic differences between the sexes may play roles in modulating sex differences in immune responses to influenza virus infection and vaccination. Future studies must elucidate the pathways and cellular responses that differ between the sexes and determine how best to use this knowledge to inform public health policy-makers about prophylaxis and therapeutic treatments of influenza virus infections to ensure adequate protection in both males and females.
Knowledge of mental health legislation in junior doctors training in psychiatry
Authors: Wadoo Ovais , Shah Aadil Jan , Jehaanandan Nadarajah , Laing Michelle , Agarwal Manoj , Kinderman Peter
Published: December 2011

Aims and method

To assess junior doctors' knowledge of the procedures involved in involuntary admission of patients detained under Sections 5(2), 2 and 3 of the Mental Health Act 1983. A semi-quantitative research study of junior trainees affiliated to two psychiatry training schemes was carried out.

Results

Trainees' knowledge of professionally relevant sections of the Mental Health Act was patchy. Knowledge correlated significantly with experience in clinical practice and with experience of using mental health legislation. Surprisingly, in-service training in mental health legislation had no effect on participants' knowledge.

Clinical implications

Lack of knowledge and understanding raises the possibility of inappropriate use of the mental health legislation. This threatens patients' fundamental rights and can lead to complaints or litigation. There is a clear need to address this at an early stage in psychiatry training.
Secondary mental healthcare in prisons in England and Wales: results of a postal questionnaire
Authors: Kosky Nick , Hoyle Clifford
Published: December 2011

Aims and method

Prison mental health inreach teams (PMHITs) were introduced in response to policy from 2003. This provision comes under the responsibility of the National Health Service. Service development and structure was not defined in policy. A total of 97 prisons of an estimated 100 known to have a PMHIT were targeted by postal questionnaire and responses covered 62 prisons. Team structures were captured in the data with specific regard to the number of available professional sessions.

Results

Findings determine there is generally no correlation between input and prison capacity, although there was some evidence of correlation in the high secure (category A) estate and that the female estate was generally better served.

Clinical implications

It is evident from this study that PMHITs have evolved piecemeal, with no clear standards or equity across the estate. This is of concern.
Diversity and choice in mental healthcare
Authors: Sugarman Philip
Published: December 2011

Independent sector psychiatrists believe that they work hard for the benefit of vulnerable people. Differences between them and National Health Service colleagues are not clear cut in terms of motivation or quality of care. However, unfair generalisations are made about the diverse ‘private sector’, with selective comparison such as with the worst of US healthcare. Although there are many examples of excellence in the UK state, commercial and charity sectors, global economic changes are bringing risk of care failures from which no area can be immune. We should all be working together to protect our patients from the mistakes of others.
The Human Submandibular Gland
Authors: Stoeckelhuber Mechthild , Scherer Elias Q. , Janssen Klaus-Peter , Slotta-Huspenina Julia , Loeffelbein Denys J. , Rohleder Nils H. , Nieberler Markus , Hasler Rafael , Kesting Marco R.
Published: December 2011

Submandibular acinar glands secrete numerous proteins such as digestive enzymes and defense proteins on the basis of the exocrine secretion mode. Exocytosis is a complex process, including a soluble NSF attachment protein receptor (SNARE)–mediated membrane fusion of vesicles and target membrane and the additional activation of cytoskeletal proteins. Relevant data are available predominantly for animal salivary glands, especially of the rat parotid acinar cells. The authors investigated the secretory molecular machinery of acinar (serous) cells in the human submandibular gland by immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence and found diverse proteins associated with exocytosis for the first time. SNAP-23, syntaxin-2, syntaxin-4, and VAMP-2 were localized at the luminal plasma membrane; syntaxin-2 and septin-2 were expressed in vesicles in the cytoplasm. Double staining of syntaxin-2 and septin-2 revealed a colocalization on the same vesicles. Lactoferrin and α-amylase served as a marker for secretory vesicles and were labeled positively together with syntaxin-2 and septin-2 in double-staining procedures. Cytoskeletal components such as actin, myosin II, cofilin, and profilin are concentrated at the apical plasma membrane of acinar submandibular glands. These observations complement the understanding of the complex exocytosis mechanisms.
Reduced Prefrontal Connectivity in Psychopathy
Authors: Motzkin Julian C. , Newman Joseph P. , Kiehl Kent A. , Koenigs Michael
Published: December 2011

Linking psychopathy to a specific brain abnormality could have significant clinical, legal, and scientific implications. Theories on the neurobiological basis of the disorder typically propose dysfunction in a circuit involving ventromedial prefrontal cortex (vmPFC). However, to date there is limited brain imaging data to directly test whether psychopathy may indeed be associated with any structural or functional abnormality within this brain area. In this study, we employ two complementary imaging techniques to assess the structural and functional connectivity of vmPFC in psychopathic and non-psychopathic criminals. Using diffusion tensor imaging, we show that psychopathy is associated with reduced structural integrity in the right uncinate fasciculus, the primary white matter connection between vmPFC and anterior temporal lobe. Using functional magnetic resonance imaging, we show that psychopathy is associated with reduced functional connectivity between vmPFC and amygdala as well as between vmPFC and medial parietal cortex. Together, these data converge to implicate diminished vmPFC connectivity as a characteristic neurobiological feature of psychopathy.
Erschließen von Prozesswissen für das Monitoring und die Regelung von Fermentationsprozessen
Authors: Grote Bianca , John Jinu Mulamoottil , Hitzmann Bernd
Published: December 2011

Die Bedeutung von Prozesswissen für das Monitoring und die Regelung von biotechnischen Prozessen wird aufgezeigt. Ein wesentliches Problem bei der Entwicklung chemometrischer Modelle ist der Aufwand an Kalibrationsmessungen, die zur Berechnung von Prozessgrößen aus nicht selektiven Messsignalen dienen. Um diesen Aufwand zu reduzieren, wurde ein Verfahren entwickelt, das Prozesswissen in Form dynamischer Prozessmodelle nutzt. Am Beispiel der Berechnung von chemometrischen Modellen aus Fluoreszenzmessungen zur Vorhersage der Biomasse-, Glucose- und Ethanolkonzentration bei einer Bäckerhefefermentation wird dieses Verfahren erläutert. Anhand einer geregelten Escherichia-coli-Fermentation wird gezeigt, dass Prozesswissen mit einem erweiterten Kalman-Filter zur Reduktion von Messrauschen und zur Kompensation der Tot- und Verzugszeit genutzt werden kann, um eine Substratregelung bei einem Sollwert von 0,05g/L Glucose zu realisieren. Die Ausbeute an Biomasse bei der geregelten Fed-batch-Fermentation ist deutlich größer im Vergleich zu Batch-Fermentationen.
Gene Duplication of endothelin 3 Is Closely Correlated with the Hyperpigmentation of the Internal Organs (Fibromelanosis) in Silky Chickens
Authors: Shinomiya Ai , Kayashima Yasunari , Kinoshita Keiji , Mizutani Makoto , Namikawa Takao , Matsuda Yoichi , Akiyama Toyoko
Published: December 2011

During early development in vertebrates, pluripotent cells are generated from the neural crest and migrate according to their presumptive fate. In birds and mammals, one of the progeny cells, melanoblasts, generally migrate through a dorsolateral route of the trunk region and differentiate to melanocytes. However, Silky is an exceptional chicken in which numerous melanoblasts travel via a ventral pathway and disperse into internal organs. Finally, these ectopic melanocytes induce heavy dermal and visceral melanization known as Fibromelanosis (Fm). To identify the genetic basis of this phenotype, we confirmed the mode of inheritance of Fm as autosomal dominant and then performed linkage analysis with microsatellite markers and sequence-tagged site markers. Using 85 backcross progeny from crossing Black Minorca chickens (BM-C) with F1 individuals between White Silky (WS) and BM-C Fm was located on 10.2–11.7 Mb of chicken chromosome 20. In addition, we noticed a DNA marker that all Silky chickens and the F1 individuals showed heterozygous genotyping patterns, suggesting gene duplication in the Fm region. By quantitative real-time PCR assay, Silky line-specific gene duplication was detected as an ∼130-kb interval. It contained five genes including endothelin 3 (EDN3), which encoded a potent mitogen for melanoblasts/melanocytes. EDN3 with another three of these duplicated genes in Silky chickens expressed almost twofold of those in BM-C. Present results strongly suggest that the increase of the expression levels resulting from the gene duplication in the Fm region is the trigger of hypermelanization in internal organs of Silky chickens.
COMPARISON OF PROGRESSIVE PROMPT DELAY WITH AND WITHOUT INSTRUCTIVE FEEDBACK
Authors: Reichow Brian , Wolery Mark
Published: December 2011

We examined the effectiveness and efficiency of 2 instructional arrangements using progressive prompt delay (PPD) with 3 young children with autism and 1 child with developmental delays. Specifically, we compared PPD with instructive feedback (IF) to PPD without IF in an adapted alternating treatment design. The results suggested that (a) children with autism and developmental delays can learn when PPD is used with IF, (b) IF can be an effective method of instruction for young children with autism and developmental delays, and (c) the combination of PPD and IF can increase the efficiency of instruction. Data collected 8 to 9 weeks after instruction ended showed that participants maintained mastery of 58% to 92% of the acquired behaviors. We discuss these results within the constraints and limitations of the data and recommend areas for future research.
Incidence, severity, and outcomes of brain injuries involving bicycles.
Authors: Kraus J F , Fife D , Conroy C
Published: December 2011

We performed a population-based study of bicycle-related brain injuries in San Diego, California, residents during 1981. Incidence rates among males were three times higher than for females and were highest at ages 10-14 years for males. Only one-third of bicycle-related brain injuries involved collision with a motor vehicle, and this proportion was independent of age or gender. Brain injuries from motor-vehicle collisions were more severe than those resulting from other causes. Over half the brain-injured bicyclists aged 15 and older who were blood alcohol tested were legally intoxicated.
Cocaine and the risk of low birth weight.
Authors: Petitti D B , Coleman C
Published: December 2011

In a population-based case-control study, we assessed the relation between cocaine use and the risk of low birth weight in Alameda County, California, excluding women who used heroin and/or methadone during pregnancy. After adjustment for confounders, the relative risk of low birth weight in users of cocaine throughout pregnancy was 4.0 (95% CI = 1.8, 8.9). Cocaine use was estimated to account for 10 percent of cases of low birth weight in Black women in Alameda County.
Some sources of error in the coding of birth weight.
Authors: Brunskill A J
Published: December 2011

Three types of error in coding birth weight to computer tapes are described: 1) confusion of ounces with pounds, 2) mistaken reading of one pound as eleven pounds, and 3) errors in placement of the decimal. All will allocate low birth weight infants to high birth weight categories. Examination of the reported gestational age of the infant or of the reported cause of death may allow these errors to be detected.
Bone mineral density in postmenopausal women as determined by prior oral contraceptive use.
Authors: Kritz-Silverstein D , Barrett-Connor E
Published: December 2011

The long-term consequences of prior oral contraceptive use for bone mineral density were examined in 239 postmenopausal women, 35.1% of whom reported prior oral contraceptive use. Women who had used oral contraceptives for 6 or more years had significantly higher bone densities of the lumbar spine and femoral neck, but not of the ultradistal wrist or radius, than women who never used oral contraceptives.
Recognizing illicit drug use by pregnant women: reports from Oregon birth attendants.
Authors: Slutsker L , Smith R , Higginson G , Fleming D
Published: December 2011

OBJECTIVES. This study was undertaken to determine the prevalence of recognized prenatal illicit substance abuse and the characteristics of women being identified as illicit drug users in a statewide population-based cohort. METHODS. During a 1-month period, birth attendants of all singleton births in Oregon (n = 3200) were surveyed regarding their knowledge of prenatal illicit drug use by women who gave birth. Birth certificates were linked to surveys after removal of personal identifiers. RESULTS. Illicit drug use was recognized in 5.2% of delivering women. Nearly half had used cocaine, methamphetamine, or heroin. Recognized users were significantly more likely than nonusers to be unwed and to have used tobacco or alcohol, have received inadequate prenatal care, and have public assistance as a source of payment. Drug use was recognized twice as frequently by practitioners who routinely questioned their patients about it compared with those who relied on clinical judgment or the occurrence of complications during pregnancy. Birth certificate reporting identified only 41% of recognized users. CONCLUSIONS. Oregon practitioners are identifying seven times as many drug-using women as can be accommodated by available treatment programs for this population. Increased efforts are needed to ensure the adequacy of resources necessary to cope with the problem as already recognized.
AIDS-related knowledge, perceptions, and behaviors among impoverished minority women.
Authors: Nyamathi A , Bennett C , Leake B , Lewis C , Flaskerud J
Published: December 2011

OBJECTIVES. The aims of this study were to (1) describe AIDS-related knowledge, perceptions, and risky behaviors of impoverished African-American and high- and low-acculturated Latina women; (2) delineate relationships involving high-risk behaviors; and (3) determine whether risky behaviors differ by race and levels of acculturation. METHODS. Survey instruments were administered to 1173 impoverished women of color residing in homeless shelters and drug recovery programs. RESULTS. Differences based on ethnicity and level of acculturation were found in AIDS-related knowledge, perceived risk of acquiring AIDS, and risky behaviors. Low-acculturated Latinas reported low perceived risk and were least likely to engage in illegal drug use and sexual activity with multiple partners. Intravenous drug use was most prevalent among high-acculturated Latinas, whereas nonintravenous drug use and high-risk sexual activity was most prevalent among African-American women. CONCLUSIONS. The data indicate the need for culturally sensitive AIDS prevention programs for women that deal with general issues of drug use and unprotected sex, and that include separate sessions for women of different ethnic backgrounds and acculturation levels to address specialized areas of concern.
Violence and injury in marital arguments: risk patterns and gender differences.
Authors: Sorenson S B , Upchurch D M , Shen H
Published: December 2011

OBJECTIVES. Community-based research on violence against women typically focuses on marital arguments rather than on resulting injuries. This study investigated patterns of victimization, violence perpetration, and injury in marital arguments. METHODS. Data from the National Survey on Families and Households and binomial and multinomial logit models were used to analyze characteristics of those who experienced physical violence, as well as to determine who was the perpetrator and who was the victim. RESULTS. Men and women reported similar behaviors during verbal arguments. Young persons, urban dwellers, the less educated, those with low incomes, and Blacks were more likely to report that there had been physical violence in their marriages in the past year. Ethnicity, income, education, and number and age of children at home were not associated consistently with injury of the wife, the husband, or both. CONCLUSIONS. Persons who report physical violence in their marriage are very similar to those who are at increased risk of interpersonal violence in general. The co-occurrence of street and other nonfamily violence with spousal violence may be a fruitful area for future research.
Motorcycle helmet use and injury outcome and hospitalization costs from crashes in Washington State.
Authors: Rowland J , Rivara F , Salzberg P , Soderberg R , Maier R , Koepsell T
Published: December 2011

OBJECTIVES. The incidence, type, severity, and costs of crash-related injuries requiring hospitalization or resulting in death were compared for helmeted and unhelmeted motorcyclists. METHODS. This was a retrospective cohort study of injured motorcyclists in Washington State in 1989. Motorcycle crash data were linked to statewide hospitalization and death data. RESULTS. The 2090 crashes included in this study resulted in 409 hospitalizations (20%) and 59 fatalities (28%). Although unhelmeted motorcyclists were only slightly more likely to be hospitalized overall, they were more severely injured, nearly three times more likely to have been head injured, and nearly four times more likely to have been severely or critically head injured than helmeted riders. Unhelmeted riders were also more likely to be readmitted to a hospital for follow-up treatment and to die from their injuries. The average hospital stay for unhelmeted motorcyclists was longer, and cost more per case; the cost of hospitalization for unhelmeted motorcyclists was 60% more overall ($3.5 vs $2.2 million). CONCLUSIONS. Helmet use is strongly associated with reduced probability and severity of injury, reduced economic impact, and a reduction in motorcyclist deaths.
Effectiveness of denial of handgun purchase to persons believed to be at high risk for firearm violence.
Authors: Wright M A , Wintemute G J , Rivara F P
Published: December 2011

OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study was to determine whether denial of handgun purchase is an effective violence prevention strategy. METHODS: Individuals denied handgun purchase because of a prior felony conviction and handgun purchasers with a felony arrest at time of purchase were examined. RESULTS: Relative to those denied purchase, handgun purchasers were found to be at greater risk for subsequent offenses involving a gun (relative risk [RR] = 1.21, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.08, 1.36) or violence (RR = 1.24, 95% CI = 1.11, 1.39), after adjustment for number of prepurchase weapon/violence charges. CONCLUSIONS: Denial of handgun purchase to persons with a prior felony conviction may lower their rate of subsequent criminal activity.
Incarceration as Forced Migration: Effects on Selected Community Health Outcomes
Authors: Thomas James C. , Torrone Elizabeth
Published: December 2011

Objectives. We estimated the effects of high incarceration rates on rates of sexually transmitted infections and teenage pregnancies.

Methods. We calculated correlations between rates of incarceration in state prisons and county jails and rates of sexually transmitted infections and teenage pregnancies for each of the 100 counties in North Carolina during 1995 to 2002. We also estimated increases in negative health outcomes associated with increases in incarceration rates using negative binomial regression analyses.

Results. Rates of sexually transmitted infections and teenage pregnancies, adjusted for age, race, and poverty distributions by county, consistently increased with increasing incarceration rates. In the most extreme case, teenage pregnancies exhibited an increase of 71.61 per 100000 population (95% confidence interval [CI]=41.88, 101.35) in 1996 after an increase in the prison population rate from 223.31 to 468.58 per 100000 population in 1995.

Conclusions. High rates of incarceration can have the unintended consequence of destabilizing communities and contributing to adverse health outcomes.
Soil acidity and mobile aluminum status in pseudogley soils in Cacak-Kraljevo basin
Authors: Djalovic Ivica , Jockovic Djordje , Dugalic Goran , Bekavac Goran , Purar Bozana , Seremesic Srdjan , Jockovic Milan
Published: December 2011

Soil acidity and aluminum toxicity are considered most damaging soil
conditions affecting the growth of most crops. This paper reviews the
results of tests of pH, exchangeable acidity and mobile aluminum (Al)
concentration in profiles of pseudogley soils from Cacak-Kraljevo basin. For
that purpose, 102 soil pits were dug in 2009 in several sites around Cacak-
Kraljevo basin. The tests encompassed 54 field, 28 meadow, and 20 forest
soil samples. Samples of soil in the disturbed state were taken from the Ah
and Eg horizons (102 samples), from the B1tg horizon in 39 field, 24 meadow
and 15 forest pits (a total of 78 samples) and from the B2tg horizon in 14
field, 11 meadow, and 4 forest pits (a total of 29 samples). Mean pH values
(1M KCl) of the tested soil profiles were 4.28, 3.90 and 3.80 for the Ah, Eg
and B1tg horizons, respectively. Soil pH of forest samples was lower than
those in meadow and arable land samples (mean values of 4.06, 3.97 and 3.85
for arable land, meadow and forest samples, respectively). Soil
acidification was especially intensive in deep horizons, as 27% (Ah), 77%
(Eg) and 87% (B1tg) soil samples had the pH value below 4.0. Mean values of
total exchangeable acidity (TEA) were 1.55, 2.33 and 3.40 meq 100 g-1 for
the Ah, Eg and B1tg horizons, respectively. The TEA values in forest soils
were considerably higher (3.39 meq 100 g-1) than those in arable soils and
meadow soils (1.96 and 1.93, respectively). Mean mobile Al contents of
tested soil samples were 11.02, 19.58 and 28.33 mg Al 100 g-1 for the Ah, Eg
and B1tg horizons, respectively. According to the pH and TEA values, mobile
Al was considerably higher in the forest soils (the mean value of 26.08 mg
Al 100 g-1) than in the arable soils and meadow soils (the mean values of
16.85 and 16.00 mg Al 100 g-1, respectively). The Eg and B1tg horizons of
the forest soil had especially high mobile Al contents (the mean values of
28.50 and 32.95 mg Al 100 g-1, respectively). High levels of mobile Al were
especially frequent in the forest soils, with 35% (Ah), 85.0% (Eg) and 93.3%
(B1tg) of the tested samples ranging above 10 mg Al 100 g-1.
Lift laparoscopy in dogs and cats: 12 cases (2008–2009)
Authors: Fransson Boel A. , Ragle Claude A.
Published: December 2011

Objective—To describe clinical and physiologic changes during lift laparoscopy in dogs and cats and determine immediate surgical outcome.

Design—Retrospective case series.

Animals—Client-owned dogs (n = 7) and cats (5).

Procedures—A custom-made lift device was used to retract the abdominal wall for laparoscopic instrumentation. The lift device was used first in 3 dog cadavers to assess the risk of complications. Thereafter, the device was used for routine laparoscopic procedures in client-owned animals. Data collected from medical records included signalment, body weight, clinical signs, diagnosis, surgery type and duration, conversion from laparoscopic to open surgery, preoperative American Society of Anesthesiologists score, mean intraoperative respiratory rate, mean and peak end-tidal partial pressure of CO2 during the laparoscopic surgery, ventilation method, mean saturation of hemoglobin with O2, mean and systolic arterial pressures during the laparoscopic surgery, total anesthesia time, signs of pain immediately after recovery, duration of hospitalization, and postoperative complications.

Results—Lift laparoscopy was successfully performed in 10 of the 12 patients. No adverse effects were noted with the use of this technique. However, in 1 dog and 1 cat, conversion to laparotomy was necessary because of poor visualization.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggested that lift laparoscopy is feasible in dogs and cats and is an option that can be used in clinical practice, especially if creation of positive-pressure pneumoperitoneum is not desirable.
Clay mineralogy of the Paleozoic-Lower Mesozoic sedimentary sequence from the northern part of the Arabian Platform, Hazro (Diyarbakır, Southeast Anatolia)
Authors: Bozkaya Ömer , Yalçin Hüseyin , Kozlu Hüseyin
Published: December 2011

Clay mineralogy of the Paleozoic-Lower Mesozoic sedimentary sequence from the northern part of the Arabian Platform, Hazro (Diyarbakır, Southeast Anatolia)

The Paleozoic-Lower Mesozoic units in the Diyarbakır-Hazro region consist of sandstone (subarkose, quartz arenite), mudstone, shale, coal, marl, dolomitic marl, limestone (biomicrite, lithobiosparite, biosparite with lithoclast, dololithobiosparite, dolomitic cherty sparite) and dolomite (dolosparite, dolosparite with lithoclast, biodolosparite with glauconite). These units exhibit no slaty cleavage although they are oriented parallel to bedding planes. The sedimentary rocks contain mainly calcite, dolomite, quartz, feldspar, goethite and phyllosilicates (kaolinite, illite-smectite (I-S), illite and glauconite) associated with small amounts of gypsum, jarosite, hematite and gibbsite. The amounts of quartz and feldspar in the Silurian-Devonian units and of dolomite in the Permian-Triassic units increase. Kaolinite is more commonly observed in the Silurian-Devonian and Permian units, whereas illite and I-S are found mostly in the Middle Devonian and Triassic units. Vertical distributions of clay minerals depend on lithological differences rather than diagenetic/metamorphic grade. Authigenetic kaolinites as pseudo-hexagonal bouquets and glauconite and I-S as fine-grained flakes or filaments are more abundantly present in the levels of clastic and carbonate rocks. Illite quantities in R3 and R1 I-S vary between 80 and 95 %. 2M1+1Mdillites/I-S are characterized by moderatebcell values (9.005-9.040, mean 9.020 Å), whereas glauconites have higher values in the range of 9.054-9.072, mean 9.066 Å. KI values of illites (0.72-1.56, mean 1.03 Δ2θ°) show no an important vertical difference. Inorganic (mineral assemblages, KI, polytype) and organic maturation (vitrinite reflection) parameters in the Paleozoic-Triassic units agree with each others in majority that show high-grade diagenesis and catagenesis (light petroleum-wet gas hydrocarbon zone), respectively. The Paleozoic-Triassic sequence in this region was deposited in the environment of a passive continental margin and entirely resembles the Eastern Taurus Para-Autochthon Unit (Geyikdağı Unit) in respect of lithology and diagenetic grade.
Religion and Critical Theory in Max Horkheimer
Authors: de Moraes Manoel
Published: December 2011

Religion and Critical Theory in Max Horkheimer

This paper is an effort to focus some aspects about a Philosophy of Religion inside Critic Theory, especially in the thought of Max Horkheimer.
Tumoral calcinosis presenting as a deformity of the thoracic spine
Authors: Kalani M. Yashar S. , Martirosyan Nikolay L. , Little Andrew S. , Kakarla Udaya K. , Theodore Nicholas
Published: December 2011

The authors describe a rare case of tumoral calcinosis (TC) of the thoracic spine in a 13-year-old boy with thoracic scoliosis. The patient presented with a 2-year history of back pain. He had no personal or family history of bone disease, deformity, or malignancy. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a heterogeneously enhancing mass involving the T-7 vertebral body and the left pedicle. Computed tomography findings suggested that the mass was calcified and that this had resulted in scalloping of the vertebral body. The lesion was resected completely by using a left T-7 costotransversectomy and corpectomy. The deformity was corrected with placement of a vertebral body cage and pedicle screw fixation from T-5 to T-9. Pathological analysis of the mass demonstrated dystrophic calcification with marked hypercellularity and immunostaining consistent with TC. This represents the third reported case of vertebral TC in the pediatric population. Pediatric neurosurgeons should be familiar with lesions such as TC, which may be encountered in the elderly and in hemodialysis-dependent populations, and may not always require aggressive resection.
Protective Effect of Salidroside from Rhodiolae Radix on Diabetes-Induced Oxidative Stress in Mice
Authors: Li Fenglin , Tang Hong , Xiao Furen , Gong Jingli , Peng Yong , Meng Xiangle
Published: December 2011

It has been confirmed that diabetes mellitus (DM) carries increased oxidative stress. This study evaluated the effects of salidroside from Rhodiolae Radix on diabetes-induced oxidative stress in mice. After induction of diabetes, diabetic mice were administered daily doses of 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg salidroside for 28 days. Body weights, fasting blood glucose (FBG), serum insulin, TC (total cholesterol), TG (triglyceride), malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and catalase (CAT) were measured. Results showed that salidroside possessed hypoglycemic activity and protective effects against diabetes-induced oxidative stress, which could significantly reduce FBG, TC, TG and MDA levels, and at same time increase serum insulin levels, SOD, GPx and CAT activities. Therefore, salidroside should be considered as a candidate for future studies on diabetes.
The Triterpenes 3β-Lup-20(29)-en-3-ol and 3β-Lup-20(29)-en-3-yl Acetate and the Carbohydrate 1,2,3,4,5,6-Hexa-O-acetyl-dulcitol as Photosynthesis Light Reactions Inhibitors
Authors: Menezes-de-Oliveira Djalma , Aguilar Maria-Isabel , King-Díaz Beatriz , Vieira-Filho Sidney Augusto , Pains-Duarte Lucinier , Silva Grácia-Divina de Fátima , Lotina-Hennsen Blas
Published: December 2011

Three compounds were isolated from Maytenus acanthophylla Reissek (Celastraceae): the pentacyclic triterpenes lup-20(29)-en-3β-ol (lupeol, 1) and 3β-lup-20(29)-en-3-yl acetate (2) and the carbohydrate 1,2,3,4,5,6-hexa-O-acetyldulcitol (3); lupeol was also isolated from Xylosma flexuosa. The compounds’ structures were elucidated by spectroscopic and spectrometric analysis. Compound 1 acts as an energy transfer inhibitor, interacting with isolated CF1 bound to thylakoid membrane, and dulcitol hexaacetate 3 behaves as a Hill reaction inhibitor and as an uncoupler, as determined by polarography. Chlorophyll a (Chl a) fluorescence induction kinetics from the minimum yield F0 to the maximum yield FM provides information of the filling up from electrons coming from water to plastoquinone pool with reducing equivalents. In this paper we have examined the effects of compounds 1 and 3 on spinach leaf discs. Compound 1 induces the appearance of a K-band, which indicates that it inhibits the water splitting enzyme. In vivo assays measuring the fluorescence of chl a in P. ixocarpa leaves sprayed with compound 1, showed the appearance of the K-band and the PSII reaction centers was transformed to “heat sinks” or silent reaction centers unable to reduce QA. However, 3 also induced the appearance of a K band and a new band I appears in P. ixocarpa plants, therefore it inhibits at the water splitting enzyme complex and at the PQH2 site on b6f complex. Compounds 1 and 3 did not affect chlorophyll a fluorescence of L. perenne plants.
Etude statistique d'appareils à l'intérieur de l'abbaye de Fontevraud. Aspects méthodologiques
Authors: Prigent Daniel
Published: December 2011

Abstract : On the 87 walls studied inside the abbey of Fontevraud (Maine-et-Loire) dating from XIIth to XXth century four sets of measurement were taken :

- length and heigth of ashlars,

- thickness of vertical and horizontal joints.

That statistical study, made on 10 000 sets of measurements, allowed to characterize each structure better. It was also possible to study the evolution of masonry in the site. This method is also suitable to improve the fitness of the ancient building restauration.
La verrerie médiévale et moderne, Collection Thaurin, Musée des Antiquités de Rouen
Authors: Barrera Jorge
Published: December 2011

Studies on the glass industry in Normandy mention the production of blown glass but little is known about it. The Musée Départemental des Antiquités de Rouen contains a collection of glass fragments which can give an initial insignt into the glass produced in the region. The collection consists of samples picked up in urban excavation during the second half of the nineteenth century in the northwest sector of the city limited by its second boundary. Although there are few complete forms present, there are nonetheless pieces of 431 glasses. The type the most frequently represented is a drinking glass. A tentative of chronological classification was made by comparing the forms présent with others found in dated archaeological digs. The XVI and XVIIth centuries are the most frequently represented periods. Observations on the chemical composition and typology indicate a similarity between the Rouen glasses and those found in the north of France (Orléans, Paris, Tours, Chalons-sur-Marne, Argonne...), however there some unusual types were found.
Les stèles de l'Age du Fer à décors géométriques et curvilignes. Etat de la question dans l'Ouest armoricain
Authors: Daire Marie-Yvane , Villard Anne , Le Goff Elven , Hinguant Stéphan
Published: December 2011

Due to the récent discovery of two Iron Age decorated stelas in their archaeological contexts, time seemed to have corne to re-examine the global purpose. Based on a corpus and on a detailed analysis of 11 decorated stelas, with several unpublished, the study of decorations, of their style, rythme and symbolic, especially points out the preponderance of two geometrical thèmes : hook, and most of all Greek fret and its derivatives.

The purpose is first replaced in its regional context, within the global phenomenon of Western Gaul funeral stelas, then analysed in comparison with stamped ornaments of armorican ceramics, and at last studied in the frame of European and Mediterranean influences, setting up its intégration in the wide movements of the La Tène culture.

The study of archaeological contexts and of decorative relationship allows to propose a datation in the Vth century B.C., for the decorated armorican stelas.
Philip S. Hench’s Rheumatology Axiomatic Generalizations: Table 1.
Authors: HUNDER GENE G. , GRIFFING LEROY
Published: December 2011

Philip S. Hench, MD, the first Mayo Clinic rheumatologist, came to Mayo Clinic in 1921. Because of his efforts in patient care, education, and research, and those of his colleagues, Mayo Clinic has been considered the first academic rheumatology center established in the United States. An early, popular lecture he gave to the internal medicine residents was an important and unique part of the rheumatology education program and was entitled “Axiomatic Generalizations Useful in the Diagnosis of Rheumatic Diseases.” We review the axioms in light of the status of rheumatology in the 1920s and 1930s when they were written, and assess their relevance today, 70 to 80 years later.
Use of a Virtual Community to Contextualize Learning Activities
Authors: Gonzalez Laura , Fenske Cynthia L.
Published: December 2011

This article reports the experiences of two schools of nursing using a virtual community (VC) and how integrated teaching strategies were developed, which lessened the gap between didactic and clinical applications. Exemplars for nursing education practice are highlighted. The term
context
as used in nursing education, means placing the particular concept, topic, or skill in a setting where it is given enhanced meaning to the learner. This strategy allows nursing students to better retain knowledge and apply new concepts. The VC detailed in this article provides students with such context to enhance learning. It also enhances student engagement by adding an additional level of complexity and richness. One advantage of the VC is the ability to present nursing education beyond the acute inpatient care setting. The VC allows students to observe how illness progresses and exacerbations occur. This pedagogical shift moves from content-driven didactic instruction to a learner-centered approach.
Projet franco-lituanien de communication par Skype
Authors: Buckley Thomas
Published: December 2011

Ce projet, fondé sur la fonction communicative de la langue enseignée, a permis d’établir un dialogue en anglais pendant trois sessions d’une heure entre un groupe d’étudiants lituaniens se trouvant à l’Université Vytautas Magnus à Kaunas (Lituanie) et un groupe d’étudiants français à l’IUT de Quimper. La communication en français ou en lituanien étant quasiment impossible, du fait que chacune de ces deux langues était inconnue des interlocuteurs respectifs, l’anglais se trouvait être le moyen de communication le plus commode. L’article explicite trois aspects du projet : les étapes de son élaboration, les modalités de son fonctionnement, et les résultats obtenus. La conclusion traite de son éventuelle application à d’autres langues et à d’autres domaines de spécialisation.
A Writer’s Perspective: An Interview with FASP Author Abigail Padgett
Authors: Hartwell Laura M.
Published: December 2011

A former San Diego Court investigator, Abigail Padgett is now a popular mystery novelist from the United States. Her five-book series, Child of Silence (1992), Strawgirl (1994), Turtle Baby (1995), Moonbird Boy (1996), and The Dollmakers’s Daughters (1997) follows San Diego County’s Child Protection Services’ (CPS) investigator Bo Bradley as she resolves crimes. In this interview, Abigail Padgett sheds light on writing FASP, including her own definition of a “thriller”. She also discusses parallel topics such as new sub-genres of mystery novels, FASP authors, law in US culture, Native Americans, on line publishing, search engines, and even a bit of magic.
L’insertion par l’économique, un processus de socialisation à revisiter dans une économie insulaire en construction. Le cas de la Martinique
Authors: Laport Danielle
Published: December 2011

L’insertion par l’économique, à travers notamment l’entreprise d’insertion, vise l’accès à l’emploi des publics éloignés du marché du travail. Cette forme de régulation de contrôle qui recherche l’adaptation des personnes au système est peu efficace en Martinique. En effet, la structure du tissu économique martiniquais pose problème. Intégrée à l’économie française, cette économie insulaire caribéenne connaît un mode de croissance qui amplifie les déséquilibres. Un changement de logique s’impose. Sollicitant la transaction sociale, base de cette nouvelle logique, l’entreprise d’insertion deviendrait, à certaines conditions, un outil de développement endogène qui agirait sur le tissu économique et sur les personnes.
Nouvelles pratiques d’accompagnement dans les chantiers d’insertion et co-construction des savoirs d’action entre praticiens et chercheurs
Authors: Delory-Momberger Christine , Mbiatong Jérôme
Published: December 2011

Quel type de dispositif mettre en place pour l’insertion effective des personnes dites « de bas niveau de qualification » ? Comment faire en sorte que les dispositifs et mesures d’insertion ne soient plus des fabriques de l’exclusion ? N’est-ce pas dans les pratiques elles-mêmes qu’il faut chercher des solutions ? Les recherches en sciences de l’éducation sur la question se développent à différents niveaux. Elles interrogent les processus selon lesquels les acteurs agissent, ceux par lesquels ils sont eux-mêmes agis. L’accompagnement des publics rencontrant des difficultés interroge les chercheurs et les travailleurs sociaux sur les outils et les pratiques les mieux à même d’améliorer la qualité et l’efficacité de l’intervention sociale. L’article aborde cette question sous l’angle particulier de la collaboration entre chercheurs et intervenants et vise à analyser les modalités d’une co-construction de nouveaux savoirs dans le champ de l’action sociale. Cette approche, développée à partir d’une recherche empirique menée avec des encadrants de chantiers d’insertion, tend à problématiser et à théoriser les processus de production de « savoirs hybrides » et leurs incidences sur les orientations méthodologiques de la recherche et sur les pratiques des acteurs.
iCampus
Authors: Bromuri Stefano , Urovi Visara , Stathis Kostas
Published: December 2011

iCampus is a prototype multi-agent system whose goal is to provide the ambient intelligence required to connect people in a university campus and make that campus inclusive and accessible. Software agents called guides run on mobile phones to help students with information about people, places, and events, thus providing people real-time, location-based advice that makes them more aware of what is going on in the campus. The work outlines how to specify iCampus in the Ambient Event Calculus and implement it using the agent environment GOLEM to deploy guide agents over a campus network. The work is illustrated by showing how iCampus improves the mobility of blind or partially sighted students within a campus, which has been the main motivation behind the work.