bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The basic helix-loop-helix transcription factor Nato3 controls neurogenic activity in mesencephalic floor plate cells
Authors: Ono Yuichi , Nakatani Tomoya , Minaki Yasuko , Kumai Minoru
Published: May 2010

Floor plate (FP) cells, the ventral midline cells of the developing neural tube, have long been thought to be non-neurogenic organizer cells that control neuronal patterning and axonal guidance. Recent studies have revealed that mesencephalic FP (mesFP) cells have neurogenic activity and generate dopaminergic neurons. However, the mechanisms underlying the control of neurogenic potential in FP cells are not yet fully understood. Here we identified the bHLH factor Nato3 as an FP-specific transcription factor. In Nato3-null mutant mice, FP cells in the spinal cord were correctly specified, but could not properly mature. By contrast, in the developing mesencephalon, loss of Nato3 did not affect FP differentiation, but led to loss of neurogenic activity in the medial subpopulation of mesFP cells by suppressing proneural gene expression and inducing cell cycle arrest. As a consequence, the number of midbrain dopaminergic neurons generated was decreased in mutants. We also found that Hes1, which is known to be required for non-dividing organizer cell development in the neural tube, was aberrantly upregulated in the mesFP cells of Nato3 mutants. Consistently, forced expression of Nato3 repressed Hes1 expression and consequently induced premature neurogenesis. Finally, we showed that forced expression of Hes1 in mesFP cells induced cell cycle arrest and downregulation of proneural factors. Taken together, these results suggest that Nato3 confers neurogenic potential on mesFP cells by suppressing classical non-neurogenic FP cell differentiation, at least in part, through repressing Hes1.
The vacuolar ATPase is required for physiological as well as pathological activation of the Notch receptor
Authors: Vaccari Thomas , Duchi Serena , Cortese Katia , Tacchetti Carlo , Bilder David
Published: May 2010

Evidence indicates that endosomal entry promotes signaling by the Notch receptor, but the mechanisms involved are not clear. In a search for factors that regulate Notch activation in endosomes, we isolated mutants in Drosophila genes that encode subunits of the vacuolar ATPase (V-ATPase) proton pump. Cells lacking V-ATPase function display impaired acidification of the endosomal compartment and a correlated failure to degrade endocytic cargoes. V-ATPase mutant cells internalize Notch and accumulate it in the lysosome, but surprisingly also show a substantial loss of both physiological and ectopic Notch activation in endosomes. V-ATPase activity is required in signal-receiving cells for Notch signaling downstream of ligand activation but upstream of γ-secretase-dependent S3 cleavage. These data indicate that V-ATPase, probably via acidification of early endosomes, promotes not only the degradation of Notch in the lysosome but also the activation of Notch signaling in endosomes. The results also suggest that the ionic properties of the endosomal lumen might regulate Notch cleavage, providing a rationale for physiological as well as pathological endocytic control of Notch activity.
The miR-143-adducin3 pathway is essential for cardiac chamber morphogenesis
Authors: Deacon Dekker C. , Nevis Kathleen R. , Cashman Timothy J. , Zhou Yong , Zhao Long , Washko Daniel , Guner-Ataman Burcu , Burns C. Geoffrey , Burns Caroline E.
Published: May 2010

Discovering the genetic and cellular mechanisms that drive cardiac morphogenesis remains a fundamental goal, as three-dimensional architecture greatly impacts functional capacity. During development, accurately contoured chambers balloon from a primitive tube in a process characterized by regional changes in myocardial cell size and shape. How these localized changes are achieved remains elusive. Here, we show in zebrafish that microRNA-143 (miR-143) is required for chamber morphogenesis through direct repression of adducin3 (add3), which encodes an F-actin capping protein. Knockdown of miR-143 or disruption of the miR-143-add3 interaction inhibits ventricular cardiomyocyte F-actin remodeling, which blocks their normal growth and elongation and leads to ventricular collapse and decreased contractility. Using mosaic analyses, we find that miR-143 and add3 act cell-autonomously to control F-actin dynamics and cell morphology. As proper chamber emergence relies on precise control of cytoskeletal polymerization, Add3 represents an attractive target to be fine-tuned by both uniform signals, such as miR-143, and undiscovered localized signals. Together, our data uncover the miR-143-add3 genetic pathway as essential for cardiac chamber formation and function through active adjustment of myocardial cell morphology.
Direct Measurement of Vertical Electron Binding Energies of Solvated Electrons in Methanol and Ethanol
Authors: Shen Huan , Kurahashi Naoya , Horio Takuya , Sekiguchi Kentaro , Suzuki Toshinori
Published: May 2010

Time-resolved photoelectron spectroscopy at ultralow kinetic energy was applied to liquid beams of NaI solutions in methanol and ethanol. Solvated electrons were formed from I− ions in these solutions by charge transfer to solvent reactions. The vertical electron binding energies of the solvated electrons were determined for the first time. Both of the binding energies were found to be 3.10 ± 0.1 eV. This is in reasonable agreement with the dielectric continuum model of solvated electrons using the previously measured vertical binding energy of a hydrated electron. This indicates that the cavity radii of solvated electrons in water, methanol, and ethanol are approximately the same (0.33–0.35 nm).
Establishing normal plasma and 24-hour urinary biochemistry ranges in C3H, BALB/c and C57BL/6J mice following acclimatization in metabolic cages
Authors: Stechman Michael J , Ahmad Bushra N , Loh Nellie Y , Reed Anita A C , Stewart Michelle , Wells Sara , Hough Tertius , Bentley Liz , Cox Roger D , Brown Steve D M , Thakker Rajesh V
Published: May 2010

Physiological studies of mice are facilitated by normal plasma and 24-hour urinary reference ranges, but variability of these parameters may increase due to stress that is induced by housing in metabolic cages. We assessed daily weight, food and water intake, urine volume and final day measurements of the following: plasma sodium, potassium, chloride, urea, creatinine, calcium, phosphate, alkaline phosphatase, albumin, cholesterol and glucose; and urinary sodium, potassium, calcium, phosphate, glucose and protein in 24- to 30-week-old C3H/HeH, BALB/cAnNCrl and C57BL/6J mice. Between 15 and 20 mice of each sex from all three strains were individually housed in metabolic cages with ad libitum feeding for up to seven days. Acclimatization was evaluated using general linear modelling for repeated measures and comparison of biochemical data was by unpaired t-test and analysis of variance (SPSS version 12.0.1). Following an initial 5–10% fall in body weight, daily dietary intake, urinary output and weight in all three strains reached stable values after 3–4 days of confinement. Significant differences in plasma glucose, cholesterol, urea, chloride, calcium and albumin, and urinary glucose, sodium, phosphate, calcium and protein were observed between strains and genders. Thus, these results provide normal reference values for plasma and urinary biochemistry in three strains housed in metabolic cages and demonstrate that 3–4 days are required to reach equilibrium in metabolic cage studies. These variations due to strain and gender have significant implications for selecting the appropriate strain upon which to breed genetically-altered models of metabolic and renal disease.
The extent and function of ‘food grinding’ in the laboratory mouse (Mus musculus)
Authors: Cameron K M , Speakman J R
Published: May 2010

Many laboratory rodents grind their food into crumbs that are discarded at the bottom of the cage (sometimes called orts). This can have substantial impacts on measures of food intake and assimilation efficiency. We quantified food grinding in two laboratory mouse strains on eight different diets and distinguished between two hypotheses of why food grinding occurs: a stereotypic behaviour due to a lack of environmental enrichment, or part of an optimal food intake strategy. Orts were quantified when mice were exposed to environmental enrichment and when offered diets of differing energetic quality. Grinding was significantly different between diets, but not between strains, although there was a significant diet by strain interaction. Ort production was lowest on the hardest diets. Not accounting for orts could affect food intake estimates by up to 31.8% and assimilation efficiency by up to 16.7%. Environmental enrichment increased physical activity, but did not reduce grinding. Mice selected the higher energy density components of the food. We suggest a refinement of the current methodology for measuring food intake is essential, primarily because failure to take ort production into account created inaccurate estimates of food intake and assimilation efficiency in mice. Adding environmental enrichment is unlikely to reduce food grinding, but careful choice of diet will reduce the errors.
Shaping stereotypical behaviour through the discussion of social stereotypes
Authors: Smith Laura G. E. , Postmes Tom
Published: May 2010

In two studies, we demonstrate that small group discussions change the extent to which an activated stereotype affects performance in a relevant domain. In Study 1, female participants were asked why men are (or are not) better than them at maths. They generated their answers individually or through group discussion, and their subsequent maths performance was highest when they collectively challenged the stereotype and lowest when they collectively affirmed the stereotype. When participants affirmed the stereotype through discussion, they used more theories which supported the validity of the stereotype, compared to the individual thought condition; and consensus mediated the effect of group discussion on performance (relative to individual rumination). In Study 2, male and female participants affirmed or challenged the stereotype in same‐gender discussion groups. After affirming the stereotype, women's performance decreased relative to their baseline scores and men's performance was ‘lifted’. In contrast, when they challenged the stereotype, there was no difference between the performance of men and women on the maths test. This pattern of effects was mediated by confidence in mathematical ability. The findings support the idea that topical small group discussions can, in the short term, differentially alter the impact that stereotypes have on performance.
Disaffected Pollyannas: The influence of positive affect on salary expectations, turnover, and long‐term satisfaction
Authors: O'Neill Olivia A. , Stanley Laura J. , O'Reilly Charles A.
Published: May 2010

Using a longitudinal sample of MBA graduates, the present study investigates why employees who are high in positive affect (PA) sometimes display higher rates of turnover, as well as the consequences of frequent turnover for long‐term satisfaction. Results show that high PA employees had higher salary expectations than other employees, and that the relationship between low salary and frequent turnover in the 4 years following graduation was stronger among employees higher in PA. High PA employees who changed organizations more frequently in the first 4 years following graduation reported lower job satisfaction and lower life satisfaction 8 years into their careers, a trend that was reversed for low PA employees.
The Detailed Localization Pattern of Na+/K+/2Cl− Cotransporter Type 2 and Its Related Ion Transport System in the Rat Endolymphatic Sac
Authors: Akiyama Kosuke , Miyashita Takenori , Matsubara Ai , Mori Nozomu
Published: May 2010

The endolymphatic sac (ES) is a part of the membranous labyrinth. ES is believed to perform endolymph absorption, which is dependent on several ion transporters, including Na+/K+/2Cl− cotransporter type 2 (NKCC-2) and Na+/K+-ATPase. NKCC-2 is typically recognized as a kidney-specific ion transporter expressed in the apical membrane of the absorptive epithelium. NKCC-2 expression has been confirmed only in the rat and human ES other than the kidney, but the detailed localization features of NKCC-2 have not been investigated in the ES. Thus, we evaluated the specific site expressing NKCC-2 by immunohistochemical assessment. NKCC-2 expression was most frequently seen in the intermediate portion of the ES, where NKCC-2 is believed to play an important role in endolymph absorption. In addition, NKCC-2 expression was also observed on the apical membranes of ES epithelial cells, and Na+/K+-ATPase coexpression was observed on the basolateral membranes of ES epithelial cells. These results suggest that NKCC-2 performs an important role in endolymph absorption and that NKCC-2 in apical membranes and Na+/K+-ATPase in basolateral membranes work coordinately in the ES in a manner similar to that in renal tubules.
Quantitative Assessment of Specificity in Immunoelectron Microscopy
Authors: Lucocq John Milton , Gawden-Bone Christian
Published: May 2010

In immunoelectron microscopy (immuno-EM) on ultrathin sections, gold particles are used for localization of molecular components of cells. These particles are countable, and quantitative methods have been established to estimate and evaluate the density and distribution of “raw” gold particle counts from a single uncontrolled labeling experiment. However, these raw counts are composed of two distinct elements: particles that are specific (specific labeling) and particles that are not (nonspecific labeling) for the target component. So far, approaches for assessment of specific labeling and for correction of raw gold particle counts to reveal specific labeling densities and distributions have not attracted much attention. Here, we discuss experimental strategies for determining specificity in immuno-EM, and we present methods for quantitative assessment of (1) the probability that an observed gold particle is specific for the target, (2) the density of specific labeling, and (3) the distribution of specific labeling over a series of compartments. These methods should be of general utility for researchers investigating the distribution of cellular components using on-section immunogold labeling.
Organic Computing: A Grand Challenge for Mastering Complex Systems
Authors: Müller-Schloer Christian , Schmeck Hartmut
Published: May 2010

The successful management of complex systems is one of the classical key challenges of Informatics. Since various intelligent systems are increasingly interconnected, new adequate system architectures and methods are required supporting a highly automated, autonomous system management as well as providing interfaces for control actions by human users in order to allow a reasonable response to changing requirements and unexpected environmental operating conditions. The vision of Organic Computing postulates the desired adaptive behaviour of these systems. Even if some system concepts of Organic Computing have already been developed and successfully tested in specific application scenarios, the widespread provision of organic computer systems will remain a fascinating challenge for research.
Deutscher Qualifikationsrahmen: Erprobung und Kritik
Authors: Kastens Uwe
Published: May 2010

Schon im Jahre 2006 haben das Bundesministerium für Bildung und Forschung (BMBF) und die Kultusministerkonferenz (KMK) einen Prozess zur Entwicklung eines “Deutschen Qualifikationsrahmens für lebenslanges Lernen (DQR)” in Gang gesetzt. Er soll dazu dienen, Qualifikationen, die in der allgemeinen, der Hochschulbildung und der beruflichen Bildung erworben werden, nach ihrem Niveau einzuordnen. Nach Vorstellung der Initiatoren soll der DQR ab 2012 auf alle Bildungsgänge des deutschen Bildungssystems angewandt werden. An den deutschen Hochschulen ist dieser Prozess bisher recht wenig beachtet worden, obwohl er erhebliche Auswirkungen auf die Strukturen, Inhalte, Organisation und Beschreibung ihrer Bildungsgänge haben kann. Andererseits ist großes Interesse daran in einem breiten Spektrum gesellschaftlicher Gruppen zu beobachten, z. B. in Verbänden der Industrie, des Handwerks, in Gewerkschaften, Wissenschaftsorganisationen und in politischen Parteien. Dieses Papier soll die Aufmerksamkeit der zukünftig Betroffenen auf den DQR lenken. Die Strukturen des DQR im derzeitigen Entwicklungsstand werden kurz vorgestellt. Dann wird gezeigt, dass er einige grundsätzliche Defekte hat, die seiner Anwendung entgegenstehen.
Neutralization of vascular endothelial growth factor antiangiogenic isoforms or administration of proangiogenic isoforms stimulates vascular development in the rat testis
Authors: Baltes-Breitwisch Michelle M , Artac Robin A , Bott Rebecca C , McFee Renee M , Kerl Jill G , Clopton Debra T , Cupp Andrea S
Published: May 2010

Vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) plays a role in both angiogenesis and seminiferous cord formation, and alternative splicing of theVegfagene produces both proangiogenic isoforms and antiangiogenic isoforms (B-isoforms). The objectives of this study were to evaluate the expression of pro- and antiangiogenic isoforms during testis development and to determine the role of VEGFA isoforms in testis morphogenesis. Quantitative RT-PCR determined thatVegfa_165bmRNA was most abundant between embryonic days 13.5 and 16 (E13.5 and 16;P<0.05). Compared with ovarian mRNA levels,Vegfa_120was more abundant at E13–14 (P<0.05),Vegfa_164was less abundant at E13 (P<0.05), andVegfa_165btended to be less abundant at E13 (P<0.09) in testes. Immunohistochemical staining localized antiangiogenic isoforms to subsets of germ cells at E14–16, and western blot analysis revealed similar protein levels for VEGFA_165B, VEGFA_189B, and VEGFA_206B at this time point. Treatment of E13 organ culture testes with VEGFA_120, VEGFA_164, and an antibody to antiangiogenic isoforms (anti-VEGFAxxxB) resulted in less organized and defined seminiferous cords compared with paired controls. In addition, 50 ng/ml VEGFA_120 and VEGFA_164 treatments increased vascular density in cultured testes by 60 and 48% respectively, and treatment with VEGFAxxxB antibody increased vascular density by 76% in testes (0.5 ng/ml) and 81% in ovaries (5 ng/ml) compared with controls (P<0.05). In conclusion, both pro- and antiangiogenic VEGFA isoforms are involved in the development of vasculature and seminiferous cords in rat testes, and differential expression of these isoforms may be important for normal gonadal development.
A Genetic Model for the Female Sterility Barrier Between Asian and African Cultivated Rice Species
Authors: Garavito Andrea , Guyot Romain , Lozano Jaime , Gavory Frédérick , Samain Sylvie , Panaud Olivier , Tohme Joe , Ghesquière Alain , Lorieux Mathias
Published: May 2010

S1 is the most important locus acting as a reproductive barrier between Oryza sativa and O. glaberrima. It is a complex locus, with factors that may affect male and female fertility separately. Recently, the component causing the allelic elimination of pollen was fine mapped. However, the position and nature of the component causing female sterility remains unknown. To fine map the factor of the S1 locus affecting female fertility, we developed a mapping approach based on the evaluation of the degree of female transmission ratio distortion (fTRD) of markers. Through implementing this methodology in four O. sativa × O. glaberrima crosses, the female component of the S1 locus was mapped into a 27.8-kb (O. sativa) and 50.3-kb (O. glaberrima) region included within the interval bearing the male component of the locus. Moreover, evidence of additional factors interacting with S1 was also found. In light of the available data, a model where incompatibilities in epistatic interactions between S1 and the additional factors are the cause of the female sterility barrier between O. sativa and O. glaberrima was developed to explain the female sterility and the TRD mediated by S1. According to our model, the recombination ratio and allelic combinations between these factors would determine the final allelic frequencies observed for a given cross.
JIL-1 and Su(var)3-7 Interact Genetically and Counteract Each Other's Effect on Position-Effect Variegation in Drosophila
Authors: Deng Huai , Cai Weili , Wang Chao , Lerach Stephanie , Delattre Marion , Girton Jack , Johansen Jørgen , Johansen Kristen M
Published: May 2010

The essential JIL-1 histone H3S10 kinase is a key regulator of chromatin structure that functions to maintain euchromatic domains while counteracting heterochromatization and gene silencing. In the absence of the JIL-1 kinase, two of the major heterochromatin markers H3K9me2 and HP1a spread in tandem to ectopic locations on the chromosome arms. Here we address the role of the third major heterochromatin component, the zinc-finger protein Su(var)3-7. We show that the lethality but not the chromosome morphology defects associated with the null JIL-1 phenotype to a large degree can be rescued by reducing the dose of the Su(var)3-7 gene and that Su(var)3-7 and JIL-1 loss-of-function mutations have an antagonistic and counterbalancing effect on position-effect variegation (PEV). Furthermore, we show that in the absence of JIL-1 kinase activity, Su(var)3-7 gets redistributed and upregulated on the chromosome arms. Reducing the dose of the Su(var)3-7 gene dramatically decreases this redistribution; however, the spreading of H3K9me2 to the chromosome arms was unaffected, strongly indicating that ectopic Su(var)3-9 activity is not a direct cause of lethality. These observations suggest a model where Su(var)3-7 functions as an effector downstream of Su(var)3-9 and H3K9 dimethylation in heterochromatic spreading and gene silencing that is normally counteracted by JIL-1 kinase activity.
The Antidepressant Sertraline Targets Intracellular Vesiculogenic Membranes in Yeast
Authors: Rainey Meredith M , Korostyshevsky Daniel , Lee Sean , Perlstein Ethan O
Published: May 2010

Numerous studies have shown that the clinical antidepressant sertraline (Zoloft) is biologically active in model systems, including fungi, which do not express its putative protein target, the serotonin/5-HT transporter, thus demonstrating the existence of one or more secondary targets. Here we show that in the absence of its putative protein target, sertraline targets phospholipid membranes that comprise the acidic organelles of the intracellular vesicle transport system by a mechanism consistent with the bilayer couple hypothesis. On the basis of a combination of drug-resistance selection and chemical-genomic screening, we hypothesize that loss of vacuolar ATPase activity reduces uptake of sertraline into cells, whereas dysregulation of clathrin function reduces the affinity of membranes for sertraline. Remarkably, sublethal doses of sertraline stimulate growth of mutants with impaired clathrin function. Ultrastructural studies of sertraline-treated cells revealed a phenotype that resembles phospholipidosis induced by cationic amphiphilic drugs in mammalian cells. Using reconstituted enzyme assays, we also demonstrated that sertraline inhibits phospholipase A1 and phospholipase D, exhibits mixed effects on phospholipase C, and activates phospholipase A2. Overall, our study identifies two evolutionarily conserved membrane-active processes—vacuolar acidification and clathrin-coat formation—as modulators of sertraline's action at membranes.
Characteristics Associated With Pediatric Inpatient Death
Authors: Slonim Anthony D. , Khandelwal Sachin , He Jianping , Hall Matthew , Stockwell David C. , Turenne Wendy M. , Shah Samir S.
Published: May 2010

OBJECTIVE:

The primary objective of this study was to obtain a broad understanding of inpatient deaths across academic children's hospitals.

METHODS:

A nonconcurrent cohort study of children hospitalized in 37 academic children's hospitals in 2005 was performed. The primary outcome was death. Patient characteristics including age, gender, race, diagnostic grouping, and insurance status and epidemiological measures including standardized mortality rate and standardized mortality ratios (SMRs) were used.

RESULTS:

A total of 427 615 patients were discharged during the study period, of whom 4529 (1.1%) died. Neonates had the highest mortality rate (4.03%; odds ratio: 8.66; P < .001), followed by patients >18 years of age (1.4%; odds ratio: 2.86; P < .001). The SMRs ranged from 0.46 (all patient-refined, diagnosis-related group 663, other anemias and disorders of blood) to 30.0 (all patient-refined, diagnosis-related group 383, cellulitis and other bacterial skin infections). When deaths were compared according to institution, there was considerable variability in both the number of children who died and the SMRs at those institutions.

CONCLUSIONS:

Patient characteristics, such as age, severity, and diagnosis, were all substantive factors associated with the death of children. Opportunities to improve the environment of care by reducing variability within and between hospitals may improve mortality rates for hospitalized children.
The Early Motor Repertoire of Children Born Preterm Is Associated With Intelligence at School Age
Authors: Bruggink Janneke L. M. , Van Braeckel Koenraad N. , Bos Arend F.
Published: May 2010

OBJECTIVE:

The goal was to determine whether the quality of general movements (GMs) for preterm children had predictive value for cognitive development at school age.

METHODS:

In this prospective cohort study, 60 preterm infants (gestational age, median: 30.0 weeks [range: 25–33 weeks]; birth weight, median: 1130 g [range: 595–1800 g]) without cerebral palsy were studied. The quality of GMs was assessed prospectively as normal or abnormal, from video recordings that were made at regular intervals until 17 weeks after term. At 7 to 11 years, intelligence was tested by using the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children III, Dutch version. Total IQ (TIQ), verbal IQ (VIQ), and performance IQ (PIQ) scores were calculated.

RESULTS:

The median TIQ was 93 (range: 67–113), VIQ 96 (range: 68–117), and PIQ 92 (range: 65–119). Fifteen children (25%) had low TIQ scores (<85). When the quality of GMs normalized before 8 weeks after term, TIQ, VIQ, and PIQ scores were in the normal range. Consistently abnormal GMs to 8 weeks after term were associated with lower TIQ, VIQ, and PIQ scores. With correction for male gender and the educational levels of the parents, the likelihood ratio of consistently abnormal GMs for a low TIQ was 4.9 (95% confidence interval: 1.3–17.6). The model explained 22.4% of the variance.

CONCLUSIONS:

The quality of GMs during the early postterm period is a marker for intelligence at school age. Abnormal GMs during the early postterm period may reflect injury or developmental disruptions of brain areas involved in cognitive development.
Prevalence of Diagnosed Sleep Disorders in Pediatric Primary Care Practices
Authors: Meltzer Lisa J. , Johnson Courtney , Crosette Jonathan , Ramos Mark , Mindell Jodi A.
Published: May 2010

OBJECTIVES:

The primary aim was to determine the prevalence of International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision (ICD-9), sleep disorders diagnosed by pediatric providers in a large, primary care network. Secondary aims were to examine demographic variables related to these diagnoses and to examine the frequency of prescriptions for medications potentially used to treat sleep disorders.

METHODS:

Electronic medical records were reviewed for 154957 patients (0–18 years) seen for a well-child visit in 2007. Information collected included ICD-9 sleep diagnoses, demographic variables, comorbid attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and autism spectrum disorders, provider type, and medications.

RESULTS:

Across all ages, 3.7% of youths had an ICD-9 diagnosis for a sleep disorder. The most-common diagnoses were sleep disorder not otherwise specified, enuresis, and sleep-disordered breathing. Predictors of sleep disorders varied according to developmental age group and included growth parameters, comorbid attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder or autism spectrum disorder, and provider type. Potential sleep-related medications were prescribed for 6.1% of the sample subjects.

CONCLUSIONS:

This study is one of the first to examine comprehensively ICD-9 sleep diagnoses given by primary care providers in a large representative sample of children 0 to 18 years of age. The 3.7% of patients with ICD-9 sleep diagnoses is significantly lower than prevalence rates reported in epidemiological studies, which suggests that primary care providers may be underdiagnosing sleep disorders in children and adolescents. Because sleep disorders are treatable when recognized, the results from this study suggest a significant need for additional education and support for primary care providers in the diagnosis and treatment of pediatric sleep disorders.
“As it Was in the Beginning…”
Authors: McCutcheon Russell
Published: May 2010

This paper is a response to Vaia Touna's conference paper.
Coping With Stalking Among University Students
Authors: Björklund Katja , Häkkänen-Nyholm Helinä , Sheridan Lorraine , Roberts Karl
Published: May 2010

The present study examined behavioral coping actions and coping strategies in relation to specific contextual factors (e.g., victim–stalker relationship, stalking violence, duration of stalking, and prior victimization) among Finnish university students. Participants completed a stalking survey, also including items concerning coping. Victims of violent stalking threatened the stalker with the use of certain legal actions significantly more compared with victims of nonviolent stalking, but no difference in the actual use of formal help was found. Instead victims of stalking tried to avoid the stalker or turned to friends and family for help. Victim–stalker relationship, stalker violence, and number of stalking episodes had a significant main effect on certain coping strategies (e.g., positive reappraisal, escape–avoidance, and problem-solving), while no interaction effect was found. The findings suggest that knowledge of victim-coping behavior and strategies is crucial for health care and law enforcement professionals when devising appropriate support for victims and developing multidisciplinary approaches.
Older People With Alcohol-Related Brain Injury and Associated Complex Behaviors: A Psychosocial Model of Residential Care (The Wicking Project)
Authors: Rota-Bartelink Alice , Lipmann Bryan
Published: May 2010

The increasing need for specialist residential aged care services to support older people with complex behaviors resulting from dementia and alcohol-related brain injury was the impetus for the development of an exploratory action research trial. Affected individuals are commonly characterized by a unique set of needs and life circumstances that are not adequately or appropriately supported by currently available mainstream services. We discuss the synthesis, design, and key features of the research trial’s specialized model, which commenced in 2008 in Wintringham, Australia. The trial was recently completed in November 2009. Through the development of a specialized residential care model, we aim to move one step closer to providing appropriate support to one of the most needing yet highly marginalized group of people.
Influence of current and temperature on discharge characteristics of electrochemical nickel−cadmium system
Authors: Todorovic Andreja , Grgur Branimir , Rajovic Jelena
Published: May 2010

The paper elaborates determination of characteristic values in the discharging process of non-hermetic nickel-cadmium galvanic battery with nominal voltage Un = 60 V and nominal capacity qn = C5 = 190 Ah and its dependence from current and temperature. Study has been performed with the set of experimental metering of voltages, electromotive force, current from discharge time range and electromotive force in steady state regime before and after battery charging. Electromotive force characteristics are obtained by using the Nernst?s equation, while the least square method was used to determine the average values of internal electrical resistivity, power losses and efficiency level. These results were used in the approximate exponential functions to determine the range dependence of the efficiency level from the internal electrical resistance of discharge current in reliance from the temperature range. Obtained results show that, in accordance to the given voltage variation of 10% Un, this type of battery holds maximal full load current of one hour capacity at the temperature of 25?C and maximal full load current of two hours capacity at the temperature of ?30?C. The methodology used in the case study covers determination of the electromotive force in time range based on the metered results of values during complete battery fullness and emptiness with prior determination of equilibrium constants of galvanic battery reaction through method suggested by the author of this paper. Further process, using the electromotive force values obtained through the aforementioned process, the metered current, and approximate polynomial function of the nominal discharge voltage characteristic determines range of battery internal electric resistance from time, followed by the selection of discharge cases with average values for: voltage, electromotive force, internal electrical resistance, available and utilized power, power losses, and battery efficiency level. An overview of the obtained characteristics for analyzed battery and their comparison with the producers prescribed values and standards led to gaining of the valuable data that show how and in what measure do current and temperature influence the discharge characteristic of non-hermetic nickel-cadmium batteries with an especial observation of internal electrical resistance and battery efficiency level. Obtained results show that electrochemical power sources may provide electric energy with prescribed quality and quantity, with high level of work reliability, as well as with all other positive technical and economic effects within the given current-temperature range.
Writing Mini-Cases: An Active Learning Assignment
Authors: Chu Ling , Libby Theresa
Published: May 2010

ABSTRACT: Research on active learning in accounting education suggests that when students develop their own solutions and/or explanations, they take ownership of the knowledge they gain and are more likely to retain it (Springer and Borthick 2007; Hermanson 1994; Cottell and Millis 1993). In this paper, we describe an assignment designed to take advantage of this finding by requiring students to write six mini-cases in a multiple choice format. Each mini-case includes a problem scenario and four plausible alternative solutions. Students select and defend the one best solution and then document a full analysis of all of the alternatives pointing out why they are less preferred. We implemented the assignment in an undergraduate course in taxation. Feedback from students indicates the assignment enhanced their learning of tax technical knowledge, required them to be creative and original, encouraged them to make links between related tax concepts, and motivated them to use research resources more effectively.
Vinand Petroleum, Inc.: Initial Audit Engagement and Fraud Risk Case for a Specialized Industry
Authors: Owhoso Vincent , Weickgenannt Andrea
Published: May 2010

ABSTRACT: This instructional case allows students to apply various professional standards to the evaluation of audit risk, fraud risk, and client acceptance issues on a new client engagement. It focuses on the audit of a new client in the oil and gas industry when information from a whistle-blower raises questions about the possibility of fraud. In Part I of the case, students are asked to identify unique characteristics of the contract bidding practices within this specialized industry, and to evaluate the related audit risk and client acceptance issues. Part II considers the impact of a whistle-blower letter on the auditors’ professional skepticism, communication requirements, and related fraud risk issues.

  Suitable for auditing courses at both the undergraduate and graduate levels, this case portrays a timely scenario, not only because of the applicable recent auditing pronouncements, but also because it presents a specialized and regulated industry that has also been highly publicized.
MTDP: A Model for Teaching Writing
Authors: Bashyal Gopal Prasad
Published: May 2010

Writing requires mastery on its basic components to make it an effective piece of discourse. It can be taught so easily that the students keep on improving and getting motivation to write much more if we follow the proper approach of teaching writing. This article attempts to highlight the basic literacy about the components and approaches of developing writing, and focuses on the model text deconstruction process (MTDP) of teaching writing. The experiment made during the competency based training laid foundation for this article. Key words: Model Text Deconstruction Process (MTDP); academic writing; analyzing writing DOI: 10.3126/nelta.v14i1.3086 Journal of NELTA Vol.14, No 1&2, 2009 December Page: 14-20
Using a Critical Literacy Approach in the EFL Class
Authors: Farralelli Mariana
Published: May 2010

Thinking critically is an ability which is to be developed in the EFL class as a result of the generalized process of globalization, immigration and poverty. It is essential for teachers to be aware of the fact that tolerance, dialogue among cultures and deconstruction of texts need to be exercised so that students can dissect dominant discourses and allow for diversity knocking down stereotypes. What follows is a detailed guide of all those aspects teachers should take into account if they are to indicate in their students a critical way to approach reality. Key words: critical literacy, thinking skills, power relations, discourse DOI: 10.3126/nelta.v14i1.3088  Journal of NELTA Vol.14, No 1&2, 2009 December Page: 26-31
Computer Dictionaries and Encyclopedias in Teaching English as a Second Language
Authors: Jantassova Damira , Zhilkishenova Safura , Klukina Elena
Published: May 2010

The objective of this paper is to explore one of the aspects of the problem of the use of information communication technologies in English as a Second Language teaching and learning. There has been studies on the effectiveness of computer dictionaries and encyclopedias in teaching and learning English language as well as the attitude of school English teachers to the application of computerbased inquiry software that are considered to be new in Kazakhstani comprehensive education. This article argues that computer dictionaries and encyclopedias contribute to development of English language learning by providing a teacher and a learner with a didactic tool for free access to a variety of materials, comfortable information search opportunities, and communication as well. The study that was conducted in Karaganda city high school, Kazakhstan, shows that the computer dictionaries and encyclopedias motivate school students to learn English language more enthusiastically. Key words: computer-based inquiry software, hypermedia, language skills, experimental teaching DOI: 10.3126/nelta.v14i1.3091 Journal of NELTA Vol.14, No 1&2, 2009 December Page: 55-62
Assessing English Language Teaching Student Teachers on Teaching Practice
Authors: Subedi Dhanapati
Published: May 2010

The implementation of teaching practice in ELT is an effective way in improving practices of our student teachers. This study therefore focuses on assessment of teaching practice conducted by the School of Education, Kathmandu University for M.Ed ELT student teachers. A total of 16 student teachers, 100 students, 16 co- teachers and 16 principals of higher educational institutions involved in the study. The study reveals that there has been an improvement in teaching practice particularly on classroom dynamics. However enough training on lesson plan preparation, presentation, class management, communication skills, evaluation and project work is necessary to our student teachers in order to improve English language teaching. The study is expected to be useful to academic planners, ELT planners, curriculum designers, textbook writers, teachers and practitioners. Key words: Teaching practice, reflection, student-teachers, lesson plan DOI: 10.3126/nelta.v14i1.3102  Journal of NELTA Vol.14, No 1&2, 2009 December Page: 138-145
Interpretation of Poetry Through Drama Activities
Authors: Vodickova Milena
Published: May 2010

This article will demonstrate how an effective lesson in poetry, which frequently frightens young people or to which they have a hostile attitude, can instead appeal to them. It is only important to choose the right text and the right method. In the lesson described in this article, students interpreted a poem through drama activities, and performing the roles of the characters enabled them to relax and provided them with more opportunities to speak English than in regular literature lessons. As the students found the lesson interesting and thought that teenagers could also enjoy it, this approach can be considered as an inspiration for their future career.  Key words: role-play, teacher-in-role, hot seating, still image DOI: 10.3126/nelta.v14i1.3103 Journal of NELTA Vol.14, No 1&2, 2009 December Page: 146-150
Book Review
Authors: Sharma Bal Krishna
Published: May 2010

DOI: 10.3126/nelta.v14i1.3104 Journal of NELTA Vol.14, No 1&2, 2009 December Page: 152-154
Development of Ni–Mn-based alloys for the fast epitaxial braze-repair of single-crystalline nickel-based superalloys
Authors: Laux Britta , Rösler Joachim
Published: May 2010

Diffusion brazing is a widely-used technology for the repair of cracks in hot section turbine components, mostly fabricated from nickel-based superalloys. However, the filling of wide cracks in the range of 100–300 μm is difficult since the precipitation of brittle secondary phases, which are formed by the conventionally used melting point depressants B and Si, leads to deteriorating mechanical properties. Therefore, new Ni – Mn-based braze alloys were developed which allow a very fast epitaxial healing of particularly wide cracks in single-crystalline components. As B and Si are replaced by Mn, the repair process can be significantly shortened since the epitaxial solidification is not completely controlled by diffusion but can also be controlled by cooling. Ni – Mn-based systems enhanced by Al, Cr and Ti were investigated. In this work an improved brazing cycle for the minimization of porosity within the braze gap as well as an enhanced heat treatment, which produces a γ/γ′ microstructure very similar to the parent material, are presented. Results from tensile tests at room temperature and at 900 °C conducted on 300 μm gap width samples are discussed.
Physicochemical properties and creep strength of a single crystal of nickel-base superalloy containing rhenium and ruthenium
Authors: Petrushin Nikolay V. , Svetlov Igor L. , Samoylov Andrey I. , Morozova Galina I.
Published: May 2010

The influence of alloying elements, including rhenium and ruthenium, on the physicochemical and structural parameters of single crystal nickel-base superalloys has been analyzed. The results were used in computer designing of a single crystal nickel-base superalloy containing rhenium and ruthenium. The optimized alloy composition, providing the best physicochemical properties and longest creep lifetime, contains 6 wt.% rhenium and 4 wt.% ruthenium. <001> single crystals of the designed superalloy were directionally solidified and investigated in as-cast, heat treated and creep deformed conditions. The investigations included: characterization of the superalloy microstructure, dendritic segregation of alloying elements, their partition between the γ- and γ′-phases etc. Creep rupture tests were performed in the temperature interval of 900 – 1 100 °C and included tests longer 1 000 h.
Influence of heat treatment and microstructure on the tensile pseudoelastic response of an Ni-rich NiTi shape memory alloy
Authors: Bujoreanu Leandru-Gheorghe , Young Marcus L. , Gollerthan Susanne , Somsen Christoph , Eggeler Gunther
Published: May 2010

The influence of microstructure on the stress–strain behavior of an Ni-rich NiTi shape memory alloy is examined. Specimens cut from a large-diameter bar of Ni50.7Ti49.3 shape memory alloy were analyzed in two states: (i) annealed and (ii) annealed and aged. The annealed state shows a fully austenitic structure with no precipitates and no distortions caused by residual stresses. The annealed and aged state has coherent Ni4Ti3 particles precipitated in the proximity of the austenite grain boundaries. The size of the precipitates increases moving away from the grain boundaries toward the grain interiors. The evolution of the two states in the stress–strain–temperature space has been analyzed using tensile specimens with special geometry. Due to the complex effects of the coherent precipitates, the specimens in the aged state exhibited lower stress plateaus in the tensile loading–unloading curves, which enabled the occurrence of transformation pseudoelasticity from room temperature to 333 K.
Microstructural stability of an Ni–Mo based Hastelloy after 10 MeV electron irradiation at high temperature
Authors: Wanderka Nelia , Isheim Dieter , Bakai Alexander , Abromeit Christian , Seidman David N.
Published: May 2010

The microstructural changes of a Hastelloy alloy under 10 MeV electron irradiation at 650 °C for 700 h to a total fluence of 2 × 10– 3 dpa (displacements per atom) were investigated by transmission electron microscopy and by 3-dimensional atom-probe tomography utilizing a local-electrode atom-probe tomograph. Transmission electron microscopy analysis before irradiation reveals two types of precipitates: (i) spheroidal with a mean diameter of 22 nm; and (ii) ones with an irregular morphology of a few nm in diameter. The spheroidal precipitates (i) are coherent with the fcc matrix and their number density is ∼3 × 1021 m– 3. Electron diffraction patterns from these precipitates exhibit superlattice reflections corresponding to the L12 ordered structure. The chemical composition as measured by atom-probe tomography, is about 75 at.% Ni with additions of Al, Ti and Mo. The other type of precipitate (ii) is mainly enriched in Ni and Mo and its number density is ca. 3.6 × 1022 m– 3. The diffuse diffraction intensity maxima arising from these precipitates are observed at <1 1/2 0>fcc, which are attributed to compositional short-range order. After electron irradiation, the Ni – Al-rich precipitates (i) exhibiting L12 superlattice reflections have disappeared completely, while the diffuse intensity maxima from the Ni – Mo rich clusters (ii) are still visible. The results are discussed with respect to the influence of the electron irradiation on the morphology and structural changes of the ordered precipitates.
Investigation of surface film nanostructure and assessment of its impact on friction force stabilization during automotive braking
Authors: Österle Werner , Prietzel Claudia , Dmitriev Andrey Ivanovich
Published: May 2010

The unique nanostructure formed during severe as well as moderate braking on the surface of brake discs was investigated by conventional and analytical Transmission Electron Microscopy. In both cases nanocrystalline magnetite mixed with carbon nanoinclusions and minor amounts of other pad constituents were identified. On the basis of these observations the friction performance of a single micro-contact was simulated with the method of Movable Cellular Automata. Inspite of a simplified nanostructure which was examined in two dimensions only, the calculated mean coefficient of friction fitted well to the value usually demanded for automotive braking. Furthermore, the model predicts that oxide films without soft nanoinclusions are not capable of providing smooth velocity accommodation at the pad–disc interface and thus lead to unstable friction behaviour.