bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The meanings of consent to the donation of cord blood stem cells: perspectives from an interview-based study of a public cord blood bank in England
Authors: Busby Helen
Published: February 2010

This paper explores the perspectives of women who have agreed that their umbilical cord blood may be collected for a public ‘cord blood bank’, for use in transplant medicine or research. Drawing on interview data from 27 mothers who agreed to the collection and use of their umbilical cord blood, these choices and the informed consent process are explored. It is shown that the needs of sick children requiring transplants are prominent in narrative accounts of cord blood banking, together with high expectations for future applications of stem cells. Given this dynamic, a concern arises that the complex and multiple uses of tissues and related data might be oversimplified in the consent process. In conclusion, the positive finding of a commitment to mutuality in cord blood banking among these women is underlined, and its implications for the wider debate on cord blood banking are discussed.
What parents find important when participating in longitudinal studies: results from a questionnaire
Authors: Helgesson Gert , Hansson Mats G , Ludvigsson Johnny , Swartling Ulrica
Published: February 2010

The objective of the present paper is to explore parents' views on safety and confidentiality, information and consent, the importance of different kinds of research, and their responsibilities regarding children's participation. A questionnaire was distributed to 2500 families in south-east Sweden with children born during the years 1997–1999; 1302 responded. The sample was chosen to include views of families with and without earlier research experience. A clear majority of responding parents stated that parents have a moral responsibility to let their children participate in research that is considered important, safe and moderately time-consuming. Respondents stressed the importance of thorough review and control of research involving children. Respondents also found it important that parents are guaranteed the right to decide about their children's participation and that they are thoroughly informed on central aspects of the study.
The temporal stability and predictive validity of pupils' causal attributions for difficult classroom behaviour
Authors: Lambert Nathan , Miller Andy
Published: February 2010

Background. Recent studies have investigated the causal attributions for difficult pupil behaviour made by teachers, pupils, and parents but none have investigated the temporal stability or predictive validity of these attributions.

Aims. This study examines the causal attributions made for difficult classroom behaviour by students on two occasions 30 months apart. The longitudinal stability of these attributions is considered as is the predictive validity of the first set of attributions in relation to teachers' later judgments about individual students' behaviour.

Sample. Two hundred and seventeen secondary school age pupils (114 males, 103 females) provided data on the two occasions. Teachers also rated each student's behaviour at the two times.

Method. A questionnaire listing 63 possible causes of classroom misbehaviour was delivered to pupils firstly when they were in Year 7 (aged 11–12) and then again, 30 months later. Responses were analysed through exploratory factor analysis (EFA). Additionally, teachers were asked to rate the standard of behaviour of each of the students on the two occasions.

Results. EFA of the Years 7 and 10 data indicated that pupils' attributions yielded broadly similar five‐factor models with the perceived relative importance of these factors remaining the same. Analysis also revealed a predictive relationship between pupils' attributions regarding the factor named culture of misbehaviour in Year 7, and teachers' judgments of their standard of behaviour in Year 10.

Conclusion. The present study suggests that young adolescents' causal attributions for difficult classroom behaviour remain stable over time and are predictive of teachers' later judgments about their behaviour.
Physical activity and adolescents: An exploratory randomized controlled trial investigating the influence of affective and instrumental text messages
Authors: Sirriyeh Reema , Lawton Rebecca , Ward Jane
Published: February 2010

Objective. The present study attempts to develop and pilot the feasibility and efficacy of a novel intervention using affective messages as a strategy to increase physical activity (PA) levels in adolescents.

Design. An exploratory pilot randomized control trial was used to compare behaviour change over 2 weeks. A modified form of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire was used to assess PA behaviour. A total of 120 adolescents (16–19 years) from 4 sixth forms in West Yorkshire completed the field‐based study.

Method. Participants were randomly assigned to one of three experimental conditions, or the control condition (N=28). Participants in experimental conditions received 1 short messaging service (SMS) text message per day over the 2 weeks, which included manipulations of either affective beliefs (enjoyable/unenjoyable; N=31), instrumental beliefs (beneficial/harmful; N=30), or a combination of these (N=31). Control participants received one SMS text message per week. Outcomes were measured at baseline and at the end of the 2 week intervention.

Results. PA levels increased by the equivalent of 31.5 minutes of moderate (four metabolic equivalent) activity per week during the study. Main effects of condition (p=.049), and current physical activity level (p=.002) were identified, along with a significant interaction between condition and current activity level (p=.006). However, when the sample was split at baseline into active and inactive participants, a main effect of condition remained for inactive participants only (p=.001). Post hoc analysis revealed that inactive participants who received messages targeting affective beliefs increased their activity levels significantly more than the instrumental (p=.012), combined (p=.002), and control groups (p=.018).

Conclusion. Strategies based on affective associations may be more effective for increasing PA levels in inactive individuals.
Low Rate of Cerebral Injury in Monochorionic Twins With Selective Intrauterine Growth Restriction
Authors: Chang Yao-Lung , Chang Shuenn-Dyh , Chao An-Shine , Lien Reyin , Cheng Po-Jen , Chueh Ho-Yen
Published: February 2010

This study was conducted to determine the incidence of cerebral injury as detected by postnatal brain scan in monochorionic twins with selective intrauterine growth restriction. Having excluded cases complicated with twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome and one co-twin suffering intrauterine fetal death, a total of 73 monochorionic twin pregnancies divided into absence (group I,n= 46) or presence (group II,n= 27) of selective intrauterine growth restriction. Mild cerebral injury was defined as presenting one of the following abnormal cranial scan findings: intraventricular hemorrhage grade I, grade II, lenticulostiate vasculopathy and/or subependymal pseudocysts, while severe cerebral injury was defined as presenting intraventricular hemorrhage grade III, grade IV, cystic periventricular leukomalacia (PVL) grade II or higher, porencephalic cysts, and/or ventricular dilatation. The incidence of mild cerebral injury was not significantly different between these two groups (eight cases in group I and six cases in group II). Except for one case that later developed a seizure, the majority (13 out of 14) of cases with minor brain scan anomalies were only transient, without significant clinical impact. There was only one case diagnosed with a major brain scan anomaly (periventricular leukomalacia) in group II. One severe brain injury and three neonatal deaths all belonged to group II with abnormal umbilical artery Doppler in the growth restricted twin. In conclusion, the incidence of severe cerebral injury in monochorionic twin pregnancies with selective intrauterine growth restriction was low, at 3.7%.
Induction of progesterone receptor A form attenuates the induction of cytosolic phospholipase A2α expression by cortisol in human amnion fibroblasts
Authors: Guo Chunming , Ni Xiaotian , Zhu Ping , Li Wenjiao , Zhu Xiaoou , Sun Kang
Published: February 2010

Cytosolic phospholipase A2α(cPLA2α, now known as PLA2G4A) is the enzyme catalyzing the formation of the rate-limiting substrate, arachidonic acid, for prostaglandin (PG) synthesis. The increasing expression of PLA2G4A toward term gestation in human amnion fibroblasts is believed to be the crucial event in parturition. Human amnion fibroblasts produce cortisol, progesterone and express glucocorticoid receptor (GR), progesterone receptor A (PGRA) form at term. The roles of progesterone and PGRA in the induction of PLA2G4A by cortisol via GR in the amnion fibroblasts remain largely unknown. Using cultured human term amnion fibroblasts, we found that cortisol induced the expression of PGRA, which was attenuated by inhibiting PG synthesis with indomethacin. Knockdown of PGRA expression or inhibition of endogenous progesterone production with trilostane significantly enhanced the induction of PLA2G4A by cortisol, whereas overexpression of PGRA attenuated the induction of PLA2G4A by cortisol. Although exogenous progesterone did not alter PLA2G4A expression under basal conditions, it attenuated cortisol-induced PLA2G4A expression at concentrations about tenfold higher, which might be achieved by competition with cortisol for GR. In conclusion, PGRA in the presence of endogenous progesterone is a transdominant repressor of the induction of PLA2G4A by cortisol. High level of progesterone may compete with cortisol for GR, thus further inhibiting the induction of PLA2G4A by cortisol. Moreover, increased PG synthesis by cortisol may feed back on the expression of PGRA leading to attenuation of cortisol-induced PLA2G4A expression. The above findings may be pertinent to the inconsistent effects of glucocorticoids on parturition in humans.
Case-Control Study of Neurodevelopment in Deformational Plagiocephaly
Authors: Speltz Matthew L. , Collett Brent R. , Stott-Miller Marni , Starr Jacqueline R. , Heike Carrie , Wolfram-Aduan Antigone M. , King Darcy , Cunningham Michael L.
Published: February 2010

OBJECTIVE:

We assessed the neurodevelopment of infants with and without deformational plagiocephaly (DP), at an average age of 6 months.

METHODS:

The Bayley Scales of Infant Development III (BSID-III) were administered to 235 case subjects and 237 demographically similar, control participants. Three-dimensional head photographs were randomized and rated for severity of deformation by 2 craniofacial dysmorphologists who were blinded to case status.

RESULTS:

We excluded 2 case subjects with no photographic evidence of DP and 70 control subjects who were judged to have some degree of DP. With control for age, gender, and socioeconomic status, case subjects performed worse than control subjects on all BSID-III scales and subscales. Case subjects' average scores on the motor composite scale were ∼10 points lower than control subjects' average scores (P < .001). Differences for the cognitive and language composite scales were ∼5 points, on average (P < .001 for both scales). In subscale analyses, case subjects' gross-motor deficits were greater than their fine-motor deficits. Among case subjects, there was no association between BSID-III performance and the presence of torticollis or infant age at diagnosis.

CONCLUSIONS:

DP seems to be associated with early neurodevelopmental disadvantage, which is most evident in motor functions. After follow-up evaluations of this cohort at 18 and 36 months, we will assess the stability of this finding. These data do not necessarily imply that DP causes neurodevelopmental delay; they indicate only that DP is a marker of elevated risk for delays. Pediatricians should monitor closely the development of infants with this condition.
Enhancing Diagnostic Accuracy Among Nonexperts Through Use of Video Cases
Authors: Balslev Thomas , de Grave Willem. S. , Muijtjens Arno M. M. , Scherpbier Albert J. J. A.
Published: February 2010

OBJECTIVE:

The goal was to determine whether the diagnostic accuracy of nonexperts in selected learning environments would improve with the use of patient video cases (PVCs).

METHODS:

We designed a stepwise, team-based, learning approach with a (1) text-based patient presentation, (2) first review of a PVC, (3) small-group discussion, (4) second review of a PVC, and (5) large-group discussion and listening to think-aloud modeling by a content expert. Four pediatric neurology PVCs were analyzed by 44 physicians. After each step, the diagnostic accuracy was assessed with a questionnaire with open-ended questions measuring the frequency of relevant diagnoses and clinical diagnostic reasoning processes.

RESULTS:

The first review of the PVC was followed by a large number of relevant clinical diagnostic reasoning processes. Small-group discussions and listening to a think-aloud procedure with an expert were particularly effective in increasing the diagnostic accuracy of the nonexperts.

CONCLUSIONS:

The diagnostic accuracy of nonexperts was clearly enhanced by interaction in small-group discussions and subsequent listening to a think-aloud procedure with a content expert. Learning through PVCs in clinical settings thus is improved through the interactive participation of junior and senior clinicians. Such an environment (a “virtual examination room”) may be introduced at grand rounds, case conferences, or morning rounds, to stimulate the development of diagnostic accuracy in nonexperts.
Performance of a Rapid Influenza Test in Children During the H1N1 2009 Influenza A Outbreak
Authors: Cruz Andrea T. , Demmler-Harrison Gail J. , Caviness A. Chantal , Buffone Gregory J. , Revell Paula A.
Published: February 2010

OBJECTIVE:

To evaluate the performance of a rapid influenza diagnostic test (RIDT) in detecting H1N1 2009 influenza A virus in respiratory samples from pediatric patients in comparison to that of real-time reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (rRT-PCR) and viral culture.

Methodology.

This was a cross-sectional diagnostic-accuracy study conducted at a tertiary care children's hospital. Patients for whom the RIDT (BinaxNOW [Binax, Inc, Portland, ME]), viral culture, and rRT-PCR results were known were included. Sensitivity, specificity, and likelihood ratios (LRs) were calculated.

RESULTS:

A total of 3030 specimens had RIDT results paired with both rRT-PCR and viral culture results. With rRT-PCR as the reference, overall test sensitivity was 45% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 43.3%–46.3%) and specificity was 98.6% (95% CI: 98.1%–99%). Positive and negative LRs were 32.9 (95% CI: 22.9–45.4) and 0.56 (95% CI: 0.54–0.58), respectively. RIDT sensitivity was significantly higher in young infants and children younger than 2 years than in older children. Using viral culture as the reference standard, RIDT sensitivity was 55.5% (95% CI: 51.9%–95.6%) and specificity was 95.6% (95% CI: 95%–96.1%). The positive and negative LRs were 12.6 and 0.47, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS:

The RIDT had relatively poor sensitivity but excellent specificity in this consecutive series of respiratory specimens obtained from pediatric patients. Although a positive RIDT result was highly accurate in predicting infection with influenza type A H1N1 2009 in children, a negative RIDT result did not preclude a child having H1N1. Therefore, for children at high risk with influenza-like illnesses during high-prevalence periods of influenza, empiric initiation of antiviral therapy should be considered for patients with a negative RIDT result.
Pectoralis major izomlebeny a recurráló subareolaris abscessus kezelésében: egy új műtéti módszerr
Authors: Bognár Gábor , Barabás Lóránd , Tamás Róbert , Lóderer Zoltán , Kovács István , Ondrejka Pál
Published: February 2010

Absztrakt

A recurráló subareolaris abscessus ritka benignus betegség, melynek hátterében gyakran eltérő etiológiájú periductalis mastitis áll. A kórkép kezelésében fontos az adekvát sebészi ellátás a gyakran alkalmazott többszöri antibiotikus és felszínes feltárások helyett. Helyes diagnózis mellett a radikális ductectomia vezet a gyógyuláshoz. Azon esetekben, ahol ez is kevésnek bizonyul, a pectoralis izomból képzett lebeny nyújthat megoldást. Egy 34 éves nőbeteg esetét ismertetjük, akinél a többszöri radikális kimetszések és ductectomiák ellenére is recurrált a betegség. Végül az izomlebennyel végzett műtéti megoldás hozta meg a gyógyulást.
Hot-Spot Facts and Artifacts-Questioning Israel's Great Biodiversity
Authors: Roll Uri , Stone Lewi , Meiri Shai
Published: February 2010

Israel's biological diversity has been praised as being particularly rich in relation to its size; however this assumption was never tested when taking into account the empirical form of the species-area relationship. Here we compared the species richness of different countries to see if the Israeli diversity is exceptionally rich when area is accurately accounted for. We compared richness of amphibians, birds, mammals, reptiles, flowering plants, conifers and cycads, and ferns in all the world's countries. We further tested the effects of mean latitude, altitude span, and insularity on species richness both for all world countries and just for Mediterranean countries. For all taxa and in all tests, Israel lies within the prediction intervals of the models. Out of 42 tests, Israel's residuals lie in the upper decile of positive residuals once: for reptiles, when compared to all world countries, taking all predicting factors into account. Using only countries larger than 1000 km2, Israel was placed as top residual when compared to other Mediterranean countries for mammals and reptiles. We therefore conclude that Israel's species richness does not significantly exceed the expected values for a country its size. This is true when comparing it to either world or just Mediterranean countries. Adding more predicting factors does not change this fact.
Randomized Phase III Clinical Trial of Five Different Arms of Treatment in 332 Patients with Cancer Cachexia
Authors: Mantovani Giovanni , Macciò Antonio , Madeddu Clelia , Serpe Roberto , Massa Elena , Dessì Mariele , Panzone Filomena , Contu Paolo
Published: February 2010

Purpose.

A phase III, randomized study was carried out to establish the most effective and safest treatment to improve the primary endpoints of cancer cachexia—lean body mass (LBM), resting energy expenditure (REE), and fatigue—and relevant secondary endpoints: appetite, quality of life, grip strength, Glasgow Prognostic Score (GPS) and proinflammatory cytokines.

Patients and Methods.

Three hundred thirty-two assessable patients with cancer-related anorexia/cachexia syndrome were randomly assigned to one of five treatment arms: arm 1, medroxyprogesterone (500 mg/day) or megestrol acetate (320 mg/day); arm 2, oral supplementation with eicosapentaenoic acid; arm 3, L-carnitine (4 g/day); arm 4, thalidomide (200 mg/day); and arm 5, a combination of the above. Treatment duration was 4 months.

Results.

Analysis of variance showed a significant difference between treatment arms. A post hoc analysis showed the superiority of arm 5 over the others for all primary endpoints. An analysis of changes from baseline showed that LBM (by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry and by L3 computed tomography) significantly increased in arm 5. REE decreased significantly and fatigue improved significantly in arm 5. Appetite increased significantly in arm 5; interleukin (IL)-6 decreased significantly in arm 5 and arm 4; GPS and Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status (ECOG PS) score decreased significantly in arm 5, arm 4, and arm 3. Toxicity was quite negligible, and was comparable between arms.

Conclusion.

The most effective treatment in terms of all three primary efficacy endpoints and the secondary endpoints appetite, IL-6, GPS, and ECOG PS score was the combination regimen that included all selected agents.
Lapatinib plus Letrozole as First-Line Therapy for HER-2+ Hormone Receptor–Positive Metastatic Breast Cancer
Authors: Schwartzberg Lee S. , Franco Sandra X. , Florance Allison , O'Rourke Lisa , Maltzman Julie , Johnston Stephen
Published: February 2010

Objective.

To evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of letrozole plus lapatinib versus letrozole plus placebo in women with hormone receptor (HR)+ human epidermal growth factor receptor (HER)-2+ tumors receiving first-line therapy for metastatic breast cancer (MBC).

Patients and Methods.

Postmenopausal women (n = 1,286) with HR+ MBC were randomized to daily oral treatment with letrozole (2.5 mg) plus lapatinib (1,500 mg) versus letrozole (2.5 mg) plus placebo. Of the 1,286 patients enrolled in the phase III study, 219 had HER-2+ tumors. The primary endpoint was progression-free survival (PFS) in HER-2+ patients.

Results.

Results in the HR+ HER-2+ population (n = 219) are presented. The addition of lapatinib to letrozole resulted in a significantly lower risk for disease progression than with letrozole alone (hazard ratio, 0.71; 95% confidence interval, 0.53–0.96). The PFS time was 8.2 months, versus 3.0 months. The objective response rate (ORR) (28% versus 15%) and clinical benefit rate (CBR) (48% versus 29%) were also significantly greater in lapatinib-treated women. The most common adverse events in the lapatinib group were diarrhea (68%) and rash (46%), primarily grade 1 and 2.

Conclusions.

The addition of lapatinib to letrozole is well tolerated and leads to a significantly greater PFS time, ORR, and CBR than with letrozole alone in women with MBC who coexpress HR and HER-2.
Histone Demethylase JHDM2A Is Involved in Male Infertility and Obesity
Authors: Okada Yuki , Tateishi Keisuke , Zhang Yi
Published: February 2010

ABSTRACT: Recent studies indicate that histone lysine methylation is subject to enzyme‐catalyzed reversion, and jumonji C (JmjC) domain—containing proteins have been identified as one of the members of histone demethylases. Although an increasing number of histone demethylases have been identified and biochemically characterized, their biological functions are poorly characterized. To elucidate the physiological functions, we generated the knockout mouse model of dimethylated or monomethylated histone 3 lysine 9 (H3K9me2/1)–specific JmjC domain—containing histone demethylase 2A (JHDM2A; also known as JMJD1A and KDM3A) and showed that JHDM2A is essential for spermatogenesis. Jhdm2a‐deficient mice exhibited impaired postmeiotic chromatin condensation, which caused infertility, even though the hormonal levels were maintained. Further molecular and biochemical analysis revealed that JHDM2A directly bound to the core promoter regions of transition nuclear protein 1 (Tnp1) and protamine 1 (Prm1) genes, and it induced the transcriptional activation of these genes by removing H3K9 methylation, which is known as a silencing marker of gene transcription. This work uncovered a role for JHDM2A in spermatogenesis and identified 2 downstream genes that are critical for sperm nuclear condensation. In addition, we also showed that JHDM2A plays a role in regulating fat metabolic gene expression in muscle and brown fat tissue, and the knockout mice exhibited obesity and hyperlipidemia. Thus, JHDM2A possesses organ/tissue‐specific target genes, and impairment of this molecule cannot be compensated by other JmjC‐containing histone demethylases, suggesting the importance of this molecule in vivo.
Determination and Stability of Gonadal Sex
Authors: Schlessinger David , Garcia‐Ortiz José‐Elias , Forabosco Antonino , Uda Manuela , Crisponi Laura , Pelosi Emanuele
Published: February 2010

ABSTRACT: The discovery that the SRY gene induces male sex in humans and other mammals led to speculation about a possible equivalent for female sex. But females are proving to be more complicated. Several master genes appear to be autonomously involved, and female sex determination seems to remain relatively labile. Partial loss of function of the transcription factor FOXL2 leads to premature ovarian failure in women; and in animal models, Foxl2 is required for folliculogenesis as well as for maintenance, and possibly induction, of female sex determination. In the germ line, oocytes apparently form normally even in the absence of Foxl2, dependent on genes that include female‐specific factors such as Fig‐alpha, Nobox, etc. In the soma, ablation of Foxl2 or the independently expressed gene Wnt4 (likely downstream of Rspo1) can produce partial testis differentiation in XX mice, and the double knockout results in the formation of tubules and spermatogonia. This indicates that at least 2 autonomous ovarian pathways are required to antagonize testis differentiation in females, a finding that is being increasingly corroborated by studies in goats and nonmammalian vertebrates. In recent expression profiling of mouse ovaries that lack Foxl2 alone or in combination with Wnt4 or Kit/c‐Kit, we found that following Foxl2 loss, early testis genes (including the downstream effector of Sry, Sox9) and several novel ovarian genes were consistently dysregulated during embryo‐fetal development. The results support the proposal of dose‐dependent Foxl2 function and antitestis action. A partial working model for somatic development and sex determination is presented in which Sox9 is a direct antagonist of Foxl2 in the supporting cell lineage.
Fetal Leydig Cells: Progenitor Cell Maintenance and Differentiation
Authors: Barsoum Ivraym B. , Yao Humphrey H.‐C.
Published: February 2010

ABSTRACT: In most eutherian mammals, sexually dimorphic masculinization is established by androgen‐producing fetal Leydig cells in the embryonic testis. Fetal Leydig cells, which lack expression of the testis‐determining gene SRY, arise after the appearance of SRY‐expressing Sertoli cells. Therefore, the appearance and differentiation of fetal Leydig cells are probably regulated by factors derived from Sertoli cells. Results from mouse genetic models have revealed that maintenance and differentiation of fetal Leydig cell population depends upon a balance between differentiation‐promoting and differentiation‐suppressing mechanisms. Although paracrine signaling via Sertoli cell—derived Hedgehog ligands is necessary and sufficient for fetal Leydig cell formation, cell‐cell interaction via Notch signaling and intracellular transcription factors such as POD1 are implicated as suppressors of fetal Leydig cell differentiation. This review provides a model that summarizes the recent findings in fetal Leydig cell development.
Two look-alike dasycladalean algae: Clypeina isabellae masse, Bucur, Virgone & Delmasso, 1999 from the Berriasian of Sardinia (Italy) and Clypeina loferensis sp. N. from the upper Jurassic of the Northern Calcareous Alps (Austria)
Authors: Schlagintweit Felix , Dieni Iginio , Radoicic Rajka
Published: February 2010

New material from the Berriasian of eastern Sardinia, Italy, and from the NW of Sardinia published by PECORINI in 1972 as 'Clypeina sp. A', allows a better characterization and an emended diagnosis of Clypeina isabellae MASSE et al., 1999 from the Berriasian of SW France. Another morphologically somehow similar Clypeina species from the Upper Jurassic of the Northern Calcareous Alps of Austria is described as Clypeina loferensis n. sp. Remarks on the genera Clypeina MICHELIN and Hamulusella ELLIOTT, a Clypeina-type dasycladalean alga with proximal bulged laterals, and Clypeina jurassica-sulcata are also provided.
Development Education in School Curricula in Europe: Global Challenge for Estonian Schools
Authors: Helin Johanna
Published: February 2010

This paper examines the position of Development Education (DE) or Global Education (GE) in the Estonian formal education and presents a survey on the status of DE in school curricula in countries of the European Union (DEEEP, 2006 & 2009). The survey was conducted by the Curriculum Working group of the Development Education Forum (DEF) of CONCORD [1] through national Non-Governmental Organisation platforms and networks working for the promotion of DE/GE in the different member states of the EU. The results of the study give a wealth of information about similarities and differences in the status, practice, and support for DE in the education sector in different nation states of the European Union, Estonia among the new member states. The survey and a look at the Estonian situation indicate a range of current priority issues for DE, and provide insights into the problems and weaknesses of an overloaded national school system struggling to keep up with contemporary global events and challenges. The paper is written from the perspective of an NGO offering support to teachers and schools in global education. Although education is not the core field of activity for most NGOs, many antecedents of global education – human rights education, environmental education, intercultural education etc. – are rooted in civil society movements and organisations. There is a long tradition of NGOs working with the formal education sector. In new member states of the EU the potential of NGOs in this field are further strengthened through the involvement in European level networks (like DEF) and European level funding (through European Commission/EuropeAid) and improved coordination in the national level (like through the Estonian Roundtable for Development Cooperation).
The Use of the Internet and Powerpoint in Promoting Student Teachers' Communication Competence within the English for Specific Purposes Course
Authors: Zaščerinska Jeļena
Published: February 2010

The development of foreign languages is a vital tool for communicating as global citizens. Using the Internet and PowerPoint Programmes within the English for Specific Purposes course gives opportunities for promoting student teachers' communication competence in foreign languages. The study considers the theoretical aspects of the problems of developing communication competence in foreign languages; analyses the findings for pedagogy in using the internet and PowerPoint programmes within the English for Specific Purposes course; applies successful experience of language teachers in the field to contribute to student teachers' communication competence in foreign languages. Communication competence in foreign languages is defined as a subject matter, as a structure, as a process. Three activities for use with the internet and three activities for use with powerpoint programmes are explored, drawing conclusions about ways and means of promoting student teachers' communication competence in foreign languages.
Adolescents' Attitudes to Law and Law-Related Issues; The Case of Hong Kong Students
Authors: Kennedy Kerry J , Kui-Foon Joseph Chow
Published: February 2010

Psychologists have often been interested in the way individuals respond to and interact with the law. Socio-legal scholars have had a similar interest. This led to a stream of research that sought to identify the ‘legal consciousnesses' of individuals as they experience legal ideas and situations.

The study reported here sought to identify the ‘legal consciousnesses' of a sample of Hong Kong adolescents in a unique socio-political context. The findings suggested that these young people possessed a ‘bounded’ legal consciousness indicated by their consistent support for obeying the law even when human rights were at stake. Nevertheless, they could envisage the possibility of questioning the law. Developmental and gender differences were identified in these attitudes. [1]
Contribution of Massive Neutrino on Large Scale Structures
Authors: Dhungel PR , Sharma SK , Khanal U
Published: February 2010

Sizes and masses of the Neutrino Structures calculated with different combination of parameters involved has shown interesting variation with remarkable shifting of position of peak value. The peak position of (ξRH0/Resc) shifts from ξ = x/x0 = 0.847 to 1.632, where x = m/T. Accordingly, the peak of the mass of neutrino structures also shifts.Key words: Neutrino; Large scale structures; Free streaming; Jeans mass; Momentum distributionDOI: 10.3126/sw.v5i5.2646 Scientific World, Vol. 5, No. 5, July 2007 1-5
Some Higher Fungi from Sagarmatha National Park (SNP) and its Adjoining Areas, Nepal
Authors: Giri Anjana , Rana Prabina
Published: February 2010

The present paper includes a list of 69 species of wild mushrooms collected from Sagarmatha National Park (SNP) and its adjoining areas, which are recorded for the first time from this area. Key words: Mushrooms; Mixed forest; Khumbu region. DOI: 10.3126/sw.v5i5.2659 Scientific World, Vol. 5, No. 5, July 2007 67-74
Weeds of Paddy Field at Kirtipur, Kathmandu
Authors: Manandhar Sailaza , Shrestha Bharat B , Lekhak Hari D
Published: February 2010

Paddy (Oryza sativa L. var. Taiching-127) fields of Kirtipur, central Nepal, were studied to evaluate the effects of weeds on crop yield during June to October 2003. Weed community was recorded in permanently marked plots (2 x 2 m2 each), and grain and straw yields were measured. The effect of aqueous extracts (2 to 10%) of leaf, stem and root of dominant weeds (Echinochloa colona, E. crusgalli, Cyperus iria and Ageratum conyzoides) on germination and seedling growth of the paddy (Taiching-127) was examined in the laboratory. Altogether 52 weed species (27 dicot and 25 monocot) belonging to 32 genera and 15 families infested the paddy. The maximum weed density was observed in September (105 pl/m2). There was significant reduction in straw and grain yield of paddy in weedy plots and negative correlation between weed species richness and straw yield. Crop weed competition reduced straw yield by 13% to 38% and grain yield by 25% to 47%. Weed growth changed pH and reduced soil nitrogen and phosphorus content. Aqueous extracts of root, stem and leaf of dominant weeds (Echinochloa colona, E. crus-galli, Cyperus iria and Ageratum conyzoides) showed a weak effect on seeds germination however most of them had inhibitory effect on root and shoot elongation of paddy seedlings. Root elongation was more sensitive to allelopathic inhibition than shoot elongation. Stem extract of these weeds showed higher inhibition on seedling growth of paddy than leaf and root extract except in Ageratum conyzoides in which root extract showed highest inhibition. Keywords: Allelopathy; Crop-weed competition; Soil nutrients; Germination; Grain yield. DOI: 10.3126/sw.v5i5.2665 Scientific World, Vol. 5, No. 5, July 2007 100-106
Microbiological Analysis of Drinking Water of Kathmandu Valley
Authors: Prasai Tista , Lekhak Binod , Joshi Dev Raj , Baral Madhav Prasad
Published: February 2010

Drinking water quality assessment in Kathmandu valley has always been crucial with reference to public health importance. A study was conducted to evaluate the quality of drinking water of the valley. A total of 132 drinking water samples were randomly collected from 49 tube wells, 57 wells, 17 taps and 9 stone spouts in different places of Kathmandu valley. The samples were analyzed for microbiological parameters. Total plate and coliform count revealed that 82.6% and 92.4% of drinking water samples found to cross the WHO guideline value for drinking water. During the study, 238 isolates of enteric bacteria were identified, of which 26.4% were Escherichia coli, 25.6% were Enterobacter spp, 23% were Citrobacter spp, 6.3% were Pseudomonas aeruginosa, 5.4% were Klebsiella spp, 4.0% were Shigella spp, 3.0% were Salmonella typhi, 3.0% were Proteus vulgaris, 3.0% were Serratia spp and 1.0% were Vibrio cholerae . Key words: Drinking water; Public health; Coliform; Bacteria. DOI: 10.3126/sw.v5i5.2667 Scientific World, Vol. 5, No. 5, July 2007 112-114
Assessing Sustainability Transition in the US Electrical Power System
Authors: Jiusto Scott , McCauley Stephen
Published: February 2010

This paper examines sustainability transition dynamics in the US electricity system, drawing on the socio-technical systems approach. We view system change as unfolding along several critical dimensions and geographical scales, including dynamics in the environment, science, civil society, discourse, and state regulatory institutions, as well as in capital and technology formations. A particular emphasis is given to the interaction of discourses, policy networks, and institutions. We trace four distinct regimes which have characterized the evolution of this discourse-network-institutional nexus over the last century. The research examines dynamics that present a challenge to the incumbent energy regime based on fossil fuels, nuclear and hydropower, and demonstrates how the actor-network supporting renewables and energy efficiency has grown stronger and more capable of moving toward a sustainability transition than at any time since the sustainable energy movement began a generation ago.
The Evolution of HIV-1 Diversity in Rural Cameroon and its Implications in Vaccine Design and Trials
Authors: Powell Rebecca , Barengolts Denis , Mayr Luzia , Nyambi Phillipe
Published: February 2010

West-Central Africa is an epicenter of the HIV pandemic; endemic to Cameroon are HIV-1 viruses belonging to all (sub)subtypes and numerous Circulating Recombinant Forms (CRFs). The rural villages of Cameroon harbor many strains of HIV-1, though these areas are not as well monitored as the urban centers. In the present study, 82 specimens obtained in 2000 and 2001 from subjects living in the rural villages of the South and West Regions of Cameroon were subtyped in gag, pol, and env and compared to 90 specimens obtained in 2006–2008 in the same regions, in order to analyze HIV-1 evolution in these rural areas. It was found that in the South Region, the proportion of unique recombinant forms (URFs) remained constant (~40%), while the amount of URFs containing fragments of a CRF increased by 25%. (Sub)subtypes A1, F2, H, and K, and CRF09_cpx, identified in 2000 and 2001, were replaced by CRFs 01_AE, 13_cpx, 14_BG, and 18_cpx in 2006–2008. In the West Region, (sub)subtypes A2, C, G, and H, and CRFs 01_AE and 09_cpx, identified in 2000–2001, were replaced by sub-subtype A1 and CRFs 25_cpx and 37_cpx in 2006–2008. The proportion of URFs in the West Region dropped significantly over the time period by 43%. In both Regions, the proportion of CRF02_AG increased at all loci. These findings demonstrate that the evolution of HIV-1 is distinct for each endemic region, and suggests that the proportion of URFs containing CRF fragments is increasing as the genetic identity of the virus continues to shift dramatically. This highlights the concern that subtype-specific vaccines may not be relevant in Cameroon, and that the distribution of viral diversity in these regions of Cameroon must be carefully monitored.
Clonal and spatial genetic structure within populations of a coastal plant,Carex kobomugi(Cyperaceae)
Authors: Ohsako Takanori
Published: February 2010

Clarification of clonal growth pattern is critical for understanding the population dynamics and reproductive system evolution of clonal plant species. The contribution of clonality to the spatial genetic structure (SGS) within populations is also an important issue. I examined the spatial distribution of genetic variability within two populations of the coastal plantCarex kobomugiusing seven microsatellite loci. Genotyping of 226 and 140 ramets within 14 × 40 m and 14 × 34 m plots on two populations revealed 36 and 33 multilocus genotypes, respectively. To quantify the extent of intermingling among clones, for each genet, I calculated the dominance of ramets belonging to a particular genet within a spatial range of the genet. Furthermore, I analyzed spatial distribution of genotypes within 2 × 2 m and 1 × 2 m quadrats using second‐order spatial statistics. These analyses indicated that clones are highly intermingled, suggesting a low level of spatial interaction among clones. Spatial autocorrelation analysis of kinship coefficient including all pairs of ramets showed significantly stronger SGS than analysis considering only pairs between different genets. I conclude that clonal propagation largely contributes to SGS at a fine scale.
Una fabula de amor: Nazareno Cruz y el lobo (Las palomas y los gritos)
Authors: Paladino Diana
Published: February 2010

El exceso como estilo. En un conocido ensayo sobre Casablanca, Umberto Eco dice: «Cuando la elección de lo aceptado es limitada, se obtiene un film amanerado, de serie, o incluso kitsch. Pero cuando de lo aceptado se utiliza verdaderamente todo, lo que se logra es una arquitectura como la Sagrada Familia de Gaudí. Se logra el vértigo, se roza la genialidad» Esto es, en cierto modo, lo que ocurre con Nazareno Cruz y el lobo. Un film desbordante, apasionado, pleno. Una historia que avanza a borbotones, una puesta en escena estridente, un relato construido por momentos (en algunos casos, gloriosos; en otros, no tanto). Nazareno es una suerte de pastiche que conjura símbolos y mitos, folclore y religión, el bien y el mal. Es todo lo contrario de lo que se podría entender como una obra acabada, homogénea, perfecta.
La ética y su etimología
Authors: L. Aranguren José Luis
Published: February 2010

Creo que la finalidad de este trabajo, mostrar la fecundidad de un concepto de la Ética apoyado en su etimología, ha sido conseguida. Naturalmente, la etimología no puede resolver los problemas filosóficos; pero, como se ve, ayuda eficazmente a plantearlos. Aquí sólo nos hemos referido al objeto material de la Ética. También para la determinación del objeto formal puede prestar la filología una valiosa cooperación.
Sobre la moderna teoría de la información
Authors: Puig Adam P.
Published: February 2010

No disponible
La huella del espíritu en el mundo de la imagen: Más allá del cine religioso
Authors: Torres-Dulce Eduardo
Published: February 2010

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La Unión Europea y el comercio electrónico
Authors: Palacio Ana
Published: February 2010

En los últimos años hemos asistido a numerosos debates sobre la política europea de la sociedad de la información y, en particular, del comercio electrónico. En estos momentos en que se está debatiendo la arquitectura de la nueva Europa ampliada, esta política representa un excelente ejemplo de la eficacia y de la modernidad del método comunitario...
El papel del Plan Nacional de I+D+I 2004-2007 en la vertebración del Sistema español de Ciencia-Tecnología-Empresa
Authors: León Gonzalo
Published: February 2010

El artículo parte de la descripción del nuevo papel que deben jugar las políticas de I+D+I en la sociedad del conocimiento y, en especial, la relación que éstas tienen con otras políticas públicas, asumiendo una función catalizadora para el mejor cumplimiento de los objetivos de otras políticas públicas. Tras analizar la estructura del sistema español de Ciencia-Tecnología-Empresa y la importancia de la interacción entre los agentes que lo configuran, tanto entidades ejecutoras como administraciones financiadoras de la actividad, el presente artículo resume brevemente la función vertebradora que ejerce el Plan Nacional de I+D+I en el citado sistema transcurridos más de quince años desde la promulgación de la Ley de la Ciencia. Esta función se presenta a principios del siglo XXI con importantes desafíos desde perspectivas diferentes pero complementarias: la necesidad de una visión interdependiente de la investigación, del desarrollo tecnológico y de la innovación, la coordinación y cooperación con las CCAA, la participación solidaria en la creación del Espacio Europeo de Investigación e Innovación, y el cambiante papel al que se enfrentan las entidades públicas en el futuro inmediato; específicamente, el de los Organismos Públicos de Investigación y otros centros similares dentro del Sistema español de C-T-E. Finalmente, como consecuencia de lo anterior, se comentan las principales características del PN de I+D+I 2004-2007y cómo éste apoya la visión vertebradora abordando los desafíos mencionados con medidas concretas.
1998-2003: El Impacto de desequilibrios económicos en el valor de los operadores de telecomunicaciones
Authors: Alexander Flögel Oliver
Published: February 2010

Las operadoras de telecomunicaciones son parte de un sistema económico que debe mantenerse en equilibrio para su desarrollo sustentable.La evolución de la capitalización bursátil de las operadoras de telecomunicaciones durante el periodo 1998-2003 puede dividirse en tres etapas: Expansión; Reparación y Nuevo Equilibrio. La primera etapa de expansión se caracteriza por un fuerte crecimiento orgánico e inorgánico de las compañías, donde generalmente este último crecimiento, dado principalmente por adquisiciones y fusiones, es financiado mediante aportaciones de capital de sus accionistas o emisiones de deuda. Este crecimiento alimenta a todo el sistema, incrementando de manera continuada su valor. Durante el año 2000 se produce el primer punto de inflexión profundo en esta tendencia alcista del valor de los activos debido a una ineficiencia del sistema económico donde se produce una transferencia desequilibrada de valor hacia uno de sus agentes: el gobierno. La segunda etapa, que abarca el periodo 2000-2003, implica un proceso de reparación del sistema por parte de los operadores para revertir esta transferencia de valor. Este proceso de reparación afecta a todos los agentes en mayor o menor medida. Durante el 2003 se ha producido un segundo punto de inflexión mas tenue y aun frágil donde un nuevo aparente equilibrio sienta las bases para una nueva etapa de crecimiento del valor global del sistema económico.
Educación y Justicia
Authors: Aragoneses Alonso Pedro
Published: February 2010

No disponible
De iustitia et iure (Sobre el Derecho y la Justicia en Roma)
Authors: Iglesias-Redondo Juan
Published: February 2010

Hablar del Derecho en Roma es hablar de la Justicia, pues el Derecho no puede tener otro fin que no sea el de la realización de «lo bueno y de lo justo». Y si el Derecho es norma de convivencia, haciendo posible la vida en común, importa considerar que nada tiene que ver con «mundos vaporosos o etéreos», porque el Derecho es justicia, y ésta se cierne sobre «la realidad viva del suceso humano». Definida la justicia en Roma como «la constante y perpetua voluntad de dar a cada uno su derecho», debe ponerse suficientemente de relieve que se trata de una idea de justicia que, estableciendo una cierta igualdad entre los hombres, propende a la consecución del bien común. Mas importa prestar importancia en Roma a «un formidable orden social no jurídico», instado por el mundo de la moralidad social, que actúa a modo de «complemento extrajurídico».
La Justicia según Santo Tomás de Aquino
Authors: Vallet de Goytisolo Juan
Published: February 2010

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Los tribunales de justicia de la Unión Europea: pasado, presente y futuro
Authors: Diez de Velasco Vallejo Manuel
Published: February 2010

Se contiene en este trabajo un examen de los Tribunales de la UE y en especial las cuestiones relativas a su organización, a su procedimiento interno, a los métodos de interpretación del Derecho Comunitario utilizados y a sus competencias (contenciosa y consultiva). En una segunda parte se enfoca el futuro de los dos Tribunales de la UE y sus reformas recogidas en el Tratado de Niza, así como las repercusiones que el proyecto de Constitución de julio de 2003, que será discutido en la Conferencia intergubernamental de 2004, con la asistencia de los diez nuevos Estados miembros que se incorporarán a la actual UE y los problemas que ello plantea a la organización del Tribunal de Justicia. Unas Conclusiones con vistas al futuro cierran el presente trabajo.
Cuentos y recuerdos de John von Neumann
Authors: Horváth John
Published: February 2010

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Von Neumann y la mecánica cuántica: ¿Finitud o infinitud del espacio cuántico?
Authors: Rodríguez-Salinas Baltasar
Published: February 2010

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El teorema ergódico
Authors: Ferrando Juan Carlos
Published: February 2010

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La plurinovela
Authors: Guillen Claudio
Published: February 2010

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La representación del espacio en la narrativa española del siglo XX
Authors: Soubeyroux Jacques
Published: February 2010

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El trabajo no remunerado en la familia
Authors: Duran María Ángeles
Published: February 2010

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Incentivos económicos de la natalidad
Authors: Delgado Margarita
Published: February 2010

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Pobreza y familia
Authors: Flaquer Lluís
Published: February 2010

No disponible