bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cardiovascular disease prevention in patients with type 2 diabetes: the role of oral anti-diabetic agents
Authors: Ajjan Ramzi A , Grant Peter J
Published: May 2007

Multiple risk factor intervention is essential in order to prevent cardiovascular (CV) disease in patients with diabetes. Therefore, to reduce atherothrombotic events, an ideal oral anti-diabetic agent should be able to modulate most, and preferably all, cardiovascular risk factors associated with diabetes.

Of the currently available agents, the insulin sensitisers (metformin, thiazolidinediones) seem to have most promise in cardiovascular protection. Metformin has a positive effect on several CV risk factors; outcome studies have shown that this agent reduces cardiac events in overweight subjects with diabetes. In a similar manner, thiazolidinediones (rosiglitazone, pioglitazone) have a wide spectrum of activity, favourably modulating most risk factors, with evidence to suggest a reduction in CV events with this class of drugs. Agents in the sulphonylurea group have beneficial, though inconsistent, effects on some risk factors but outcome studies have failed to show a cardioprotective role for these agents.

New classes of drugs to manage type 2 diabetes are currently at various stages of development and their role in prevention of cardiovascular disease awaits evaluation. At present, first-line management of insulin-resistant type 2 diabetes should utilise metformin, with the addition of thiazolidinediones and sulphonylureas to achieve optimal glycaemic control.
Large Sample Neutron Activation Analysis: A Challenge in Cultural Heritage Studies
Authors: Stamatelatos Ion E. , Tzika Faidra
Published: May 2007

Large sample neutron activation analysis compliments and significantly extends the analytical tools available for cultural heritage and authentication studies providing unique applications of non‐destructive, multi‐element analysis of materials that are too precious to damage for sampling purposes, representative sampling of heterogeneous materials or even analysis of whole objects. In this work, correction factors for neutron self‐shielding, gamma‐ray attenuation and volume distribution of the activity in large volume samples composed of iron and ceramic material were derived. Moreover, the effect of inhomogeneity on the accuracy of the technique was examined.
Re‐Examination of Turkey Red
Authors: Karadag Recep , Dolen Emre
Published: May 2007

Cotton yarn was dyed in Turkey red using madder through a special method. Amount of the dyestuffs bound to mordanted cotton fibre and the oiling numbers of the cotton yarn was investigated by using TLC (thin layer chromatography) and spectrophotometry. Sn(II) in the bright red cotton yarn was analysed by X‐ray diffraction method.
Parallel effects of genetic variation in ACE activity in baboons and humans
Authors: Tung Jenny , Rudolph Johannes , Altmann Jeanne , Alberts Susan C.
Published: May 2007

Like humans, savannah baboons (Papio sp.) show heritable interindividual variation in complex physiological phenotypes. One prominent example of such variation involves production of the homeostatic regulator protein angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE), which shows heritable variation in both baboons and humans. In humans, this phenotypic variation is associated with an Alu insertion–deletion polymorphism in the ACE gene, which explains approximately half of the variation in serum ACE activity. We identified a similar Alu insertion–deletion polymorphism in the baboon ACE homologue and measured its frequency in a wild population and a captive population of baboons. We also analyzed the contribution of ACE genotype at this indel to variation in serum ACE activity in the captive population. When conditioned on weight, a known factor affecting ACE activity in humans, age and ACE genotype both accounted for variance in ACE activity; in particular, we identified a significant nonadditive interaction between age and genotype. A model incorporating this interaction effect explained 21.6% of the variation in residual serum ACE activity. Individuals homozygous for the deletion mutation exhibited significantly higher levels of ACE activity than insertion–deletion heterozygotes at younger ages (10–14 years), but showed a trend towards lower levels of ACE activity compared with heterozygotes at older ages (≥15 years). These results demonstrate an interesting parallel between the genetic architecture underlying ACE variation in humans and baboons, suggesting that further attention should be paid in humans to the relationship between ACE genetic variation and aging. Am J Phys Anthropol, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Clinical and genetic study of autosomal recessive cerebellar ataxia type 1
Authors: Dupré Nicolas , Gros‐Louis François , Chrestian Nicolas , Verreault Steve , Brunet Denis , de Verteuil Danielle , Brais Bernard , Bouchard Jean‐Pierre , Rouleau Guy A.
Published: May 2007

Objective

Define the phenotype and genotype of a cluster of families with a relatively pure cerebellar ataxia referred to as autosomal recessive cerebellar ataxia type 1 (ARCA‐1).

Methods

We ascertained 64 probands and affected members of 30 French‐Canadian families all showing similar clinical features and originating from the same region of Quebec. After informed consent, we performed detailed clinical history, neurological examination, brain imaging, nerve conduction studies, and SYNE1 mutation detection of all available subjects.

Results

Based on the cases examined, ARCA‐1 is a cerebellar syndrome characterized by recessive transmission, middle‐age onset (mean, 31.60; range, 17–46 years), slow progression and moderate disability, significant dysarthria, mild oculomotor abnormalities, occasional brisk reflexes in the lower extremities, normal nerve conduction studies, and diffuse cerebellar atrophy on imaging. We identified a total of seven mutations in our population, thereby providing evidence of genotypic heterogeneity. Patients with different mutations did not show significant phenotypic heterogeneity.

Interpretation

We identified a cluster of French‐Canadian families with a new recessive ataxia of relatively pure cerebellar type caused by mutations in SYNE1. The function of SYNE1 is thus critical in the maintenance of cerebellar structure in humans. We expect that this disease will be a common cause of middle‐age‐onset recessive ataxia worldwide. Ann Neurol 2007
DBH −1021C→T does not modify risk or age at onset in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Chun Lani S. , Samii Ali , Hutter Carolyn M. , Griffith Alida , Roberts John W. , Leis Berta C. , Mosley Anthony D. , Wander P. Luke , Edwards Karen L. , Payami Haydeh , Zabetian Cyrus P.
Published: May 2007

DBH is a candidate gene in Parkinson's disease (PD) and contains a putative functional polymorphism (‐1021C→T) that has been reported to modify PD susceptibility. We examined −1021C→T in a sample of 1,244 PD patients and 1,186 unrelated control subjects. There was no significant difference in allele (p = 0.14) or genotype (p = 0.26) frequencies between the two groups. A similar result was obtained after pooling our data with those previously published. Furthermore, we found no evidence for an effect of genotype on age at onset among patients. Our findings argue against DBH −1021C→T as a risk factor or age at onset modifier in PD. Ann Neurol 2007
Semitransparent poly(styrene‐r‐maleic anhydride)/alumina nanocomposites for optical applications
Authors: Chandra Alexander , Turng Lih‐Sheng , Gopalan Padma , Rowell Roger M. , Gong Shaoqin
Published: May 2007

This article presents the development and characterization of transparent poly(styrene‐r‐maleic anhydride) (SMA)/alumina nanocomposites for potential use in optical applications. Chemically treated spherical alumina nanoparticles were dispersed in an SMA matrix polymer via the solution and melt‐compounding methods to produce 2 wt % nanocomposites. Field emission scanning electron microscopy was used to examine the nanoparticle dispersion. When the solution method was used, nanoparticle reagglomeration occurred, despite the fairly good polymer wetting. However, through the coating of the alumina nanoparticles with a thin layer (ca. 20 nm) of low‐molecular‐weight SMA, reagglomeration was absent in the melt‐compounded samples, and this resulted in excellent nanoparticle dispersion. The resultant nanocomposites were semitransparent to visible light at a 2‐mm thickness with improved UV‐barrier properties. Their impact strengths, tensile strengths, and strains at break were slightly reduced compared with those of their neat resin counterpart, whereas a small enhancement in their moduli was achieved. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 2007
Functional results after extended myotomy for diffuse oesophageal spasm
Authors: Leconte M , Douard R , Gaudric M , Dumontier I , Chaussade S , Dousset B
Published: May 2007

Background

The role of surgery in the management of patients with diffuse oesophageal spasm (DOS) remains controversial. The aim of this study was to assess functional results after extended myotomy for DOS.

Methods

This prospective study evaluated 20 patients who had extended myotomy (14 cm on the oesophagus and 2 cm below the oesophagogastric junction) with anterior fundoplication via a laparotomy for severe DOS. Median follow-up was 50 (range 6–84) months. Functional data were assessed by means of dysphagia (range 0–3), chest pain (range 0–3) and overall clinical (range 0–12, including dysphagia, chest pain, regurgitation, gastro-oesophageal reflux) scores.

Results

All patients had severe DOS. The median preoperative overall clinical score was 6 (range 3–8) with a dysphagia score of at least 2. Median postoperative functional scores were significantly lower than preoperative values (overall clinical score 1 versus 6, dysphagia score 0 versus 3, chest pain score 0 versus 2). At final follow-up, good or excellent results were obtained for overall clinical score in 16 patients, for dysphagia score in 18 and for chest pain score in all 20 patients. Postoperative gastro-oesophageal reflux was noted in two of the 20 patients.

Conclusion

Extended myotomy with anterior fundoplication is an effective treatment for severe DOS. Medium-term postoperative functional results were excellent, especially in terms of dysphagia and chest pain.
Late vascular response at the edges of sirolimus analogous‐eluting stents in diabetic patients: An intravascular ultrasound study
Authors: Lasave Leandro I. , Abizaid Alexandre A.C. , de Ribamar Costa José , Tanajura Luiz F. , Feres Fausto , Abizaid Andrea S. , Siqueira Dimytri , Staico Rodolfo , Sousa Amanda GRM , Sousa J. Eduardo
Published: May 2007

Introduction: Vascular response at edges of drug‐eluting stents is still not well established, particularly in diabetic patients who are prone to aggressive atherosclerosis progression. Recently, Biolimus and Zotarolimus have demonstrated potent antiproliferative effects. Objective: To compare the vascular responses at edges of sirolimus analogous‐eluting stents in patients with and without diabetes, using intravascular ultrasound (IVUS). Methods: 306 edges were analyzed in 153 patients treated with drug‐eluting stents and divided in: diabetics (122 edges) and nondiabetics (166 edges). IVUS was performed postintervention and at 6‐month follow‐up and included 5 mm distal and proximal to the stented segment. Vessel, lumen, and plaque volumes were calculated. Volume variation (follow‐up minus basal) was also calculated. Edge restenosis was defined as obstruction >50%. Results: Baseline characteristics were similar between groups. In both groups the entire lesion length was covered (stent length/lesion length ratio was 1.5 for both groups). There were no differences in edge volumes and restenosis rate between the groups. Among diabetics, there was no significant volume variation. However, in nondiabetic patients there was significant increase in vessel volume in proximal (from 67.1 ± 22 mm3 to 72.2 ± 25 mm3: P = 0.02) and distal (from 54.4 ± 22 mm3 to 59.8 ± 22 mm3: P = 0.001) edges. Conclusion: Nondiabetic patients showed a significant positive vascular remodeling in proximal and distal edges of sirolimus analogous‐eluting stent. This vascular mechanism was not observed in diabetic patients. Although different vascular responses were observed, restenosis rates were equivalent between the 2 groups at 6‐month follow‐up. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Indirect Detection of Nitrogen‐14 in Solid‐State NMR Spectroscopy
Authors: Cavadini Simone , Antonijevic Sasa , Lupulescu Adonis , Bodenhausen Geoffrey
Published: May 2007

NMR spectra of 14N (spin I=1) are obtained by indirect detection in powders spinning at the magic angle. The method relies on the transfer of coherence from a neighboring “spy” nucleus with S=1/2, such as 13C or 1H, to single‐ or double‐quantum transitions of 14N nuclei. The transfer of coherence can occur through a combination of scalar and residual dipolar splittings (RDS); the latter are also known as second‐order quadrupole–dipole cross terms. The two‐dimensional NMR spectra reveal powder patterns determined by second‐ and third‐order quadrupolar couplings. These spectra depend on the quadrupolar coupling constant CQ (typically a few megahertz), on the asymmetry parameter ηQ of the 14N nucleus, and on the orientation of the internuclear vector rIS between the I (14N) and S (spy) nuclei with respect to the quadrupolar tensor. These parameters, which can be subject to motional averaging, can reveal valuable information about the structure and dynamics of nitrogen‐containing solids. Application of this technique to various amino acids, either enriched in 13C or with natural carbon isotope abundance, with spectra recorded at various magnetic fields, illustrates the scope of the method.
Electrochemical and Photosensitized Redox Reactions of a Prussian Blue Film Layered on a WO3/[Ru(bpy)3]2+/Polymer Hybrid Film
Authors: Sone Koji , Teraguchi Masahiro , Kaneko Takashi , Aoki Toshiki , Yagi Masayuki
Published: May 2007

A hybrid film of WO3/tris(2,2′‐bipyridine)ruthenium(II) ([Ru(bpy)3]2+)/poly(sodium 4‐styrenesulfonate) (PSS) (denoted as a WRP hybrid film) was prepared as a base layer on an indium tin oxide electrode substrate by cathodic electrodeposition from a colloidal ternary solution containing peroxotungstic acid, [Ru(bpy)3]2+, and PSS. Prussian blue, FeIII4[FeII(CN)6]3 (FeII–FeIII) was cathodically electrodeposited on the WRP hybrid film from a Berlin brown (FeIII–FeIII) colloidal solution to give a WRP/FeII–FeIII bilayer film. Spectrocyclic voltammetry measurement of the WRP/FeII–FeIII bilayer film reveals that Prussian white (FeII–FeII) is oxidized to FeII–FeIII by electrogenerated RuIII, and FeII–FeIII is re‐reduced to FeII–FeII by electrogenerated HxWO3. Visible‐light irradiation of the WRP hybrid film generates a small photocurrent (≈8 nA cm−2) at 0.4 V of an applied potential, whereas irradiation of the WRP/FeII–FeII bilayer film (FeII–FeIII is electrochemically reduced to the FeII–FeII state) significantly generates a steady photoanodic current of 2.0–1.1 μA cm−2 under the same conditions, thus demonstrating that the photoanodic current is produced by the layered FeII–FeII film. The photoaction spectrum of the bilayer film reveals that the photoanodic current is based on the photoexcitation of [Ru(bpy)3]2+. The photogeneration of FeII–FeIII from FeII–FeII is shown by the absorption spectral change of the bilayer film on irradiation. These results corroborate the notion that FeII–FeII is oxidized by photogenerated RuIII to generate FeII–FeIII. However, the rate of photogeneration of FeII–FeIII is slow, which could be ascribed to the fast back electron transfer (ET) from WO3 to RuIII, comparable with the forward ET from FeII–FeII to RuIII. The fast back ET could be a crucial problem for the [Ru(bpy)3]2+‐sensitized reaction in the hybrid film.
Dinuclear Nickel–Ruthenium Complexes as Functional Bio‐Inspired Models of [NiFe] Hydrogenases
Authors: Oudart Yohan , Artero Vincent , Pécaut Jacques , Lebrun Colette , Fontecave Marc
Published: May 2007

Three new dinuclear nickel ruthenium complexes, namely [Ni(xbsms)Ru(p‐cymene)Cl]+, [Ni(emi)Ru(CO)2Cl2]2– and [Ni(emi)Ru(p‐cymene)Cl]– [H2xbsms = 1,2‐bis(4‐mercapto‐3,3‐dimethyl‐2‐thiabutyl)benzene, H2emi = N,N′‐ethylenebis(2‐mercaptoisobutyramide], have been synthesized and fully characterized as models of the active site of[NiFe] hydrogenases. The three‐dimensional structure of [Ni(xbsms)Ru(p‐cymene)Cl]+ reveals a nickel center in a square‐planar dithioether‐dithiolate environment that is connected to a ruthenium moiety via a Ni(μ‐SR)2Ru bridge. These complexes catalyze hydrogen evolution by electroreduction of the weakly acidic Et3NH+ ions in dimethylformamide and are therefore among the first bio‐inspired functional models of [NiFe] hydrogenases. The catalytic activity of these new complexes is explained by the existence of a cooperative effect between the metal centers and is further related to their electronic properties. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2007)
Platinum(II) Alkynyl Complexes Containing N‐ and S‐Propargylated Ligands: Synthesis, Structures and Formation of PtII/AgI Coordination Compounds
Authors: Mohr Fabian , Mendía Aránzazu , Laguna Mariano
Published: May 2007

Alkylation of 2‐hydroxypyridine, 2‐pyridinethiol, 2‐hydroxy‐4‐methylquinoline, phthalimide and pyrazole with propargyl bromide gave a series of alkynes in high yield. These alkynes were reacted with the chloroplatinum(II) compounds trans‐[PtCl2(PPh3)2] and cis‐[PtCl2(dppe)] to afford the respective trans‐ and cis‐bis(alkynyl)platinum(II) complexes, which were characterised by spectroscopic analysis and by X‐ray diffraction. The platinum(II) complexes containing the thiopyridyl‐ and pyrazolyl‐substituted alkynes react with 1 or 2 equiv. of [Ag(NO3)(PPh3)] to give dimetallic PtII/AgI complexes.(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2007)
Cognitive processes and social identity through focused introspection
Authors: Zavalloni Marisa
Published: May 2007

A method is presented to explore, empirically, patterns of social and personal identity: the social identity inventory (SII). The SII is based on free associations describing a person's principal group memberships (first order data). The responses obtained are used as stimuli to generate ‘second order data’ through focused introspection.

The results reveal patterns of relationship between self‐representation and group representation, the differential probability of different group memberships to elicit self‐representations, and the cognitive processes underlying the natural represen‐tations of group memberships.
Pollyanna's personal judgments
Authors: Warr Peter B.
Published: May 2007

The Pollyanna hypothesis is extended into the field of intertrait inference to predict that inferential thresholds for positively evaluated characteristics will be lower than those for negatively evaluated characteristics. This prediction is confirmed, and is shown to have important implications for models of inference rules.

Data from several studies are analysed to reveal that the Pollyanna threshold effect is reliably greater for women than for men, and it is shown that this effect is unrelated to sex differences in extremity of responding.
The positive‐negative asymmetry: On cognitive consistency and positivity bias
Authors: Peeters Guido
Published: May 2007

Positivity bias is approached from three viewpoints: (a) It may be the effect of purely cognitive dispositions. (b) As such, it may function as an hypothesis about reality. The related dynamic factor would be a tendency toward cognitive validity which may lead to an orientation toward the negative as a means to test the positivity‐hypothesis. (c) Finally, the subject may seek rewarding behavioral interactions with entities within his life space. In this context cognitive positivity bias may reflect a behavioural approach bias which can be related to the dynamics of ‘mere survival’ and ‘self‐actualization’.
Studies in group decision I: Social space, patterns of communication and group concensus
Authors: Moscovici Serge , Lecuyer Roger
Published: May 2007

The discovery of the effects of risky shift focusses the interest on the study of decision processes. Nevertheless the researches carried on until now have always shown confusion between the theoretical and experimental analysis of these processes and the risk‐related behavior. In the first part of the article the authors try to clear this confusion as well as to define the conditions of a systematic study of the mechanisms of decision leading either to an averaging or to a polarization of individual views. The authors insist on the necessity to compare groups rather than individuals to groups. To start with, one hypothesis concerning the effects of group organization on the degree of polarization of views is proposed. The experiment described in the second part of the article confirms the hypothesis: A group in which individuals have the possibility to communicate with each other and to interact directly take more extreme decisions than a group deprived of this possibility. It is presumptuous and inexact to state that groups take more extreme risk than individuals whereas it is right to say that certain groups take risks when circumstances are favorable.
Self‐image, perception of peers' risk acceptance and risky shift
Authors: Lamm Helmut , Trommsdorff Gisela , Rost‐Schaude Edith
Published: May 2007

Twelve four‐person female groups of subjects displaying the typical underestimation of their peers' (relative to their own) risk acceptance were compared with twelve groups of subjects who (slightly) overestimated their peers' risk acceptance. Risk level was measured by responses to a set of hypothetical decision situations known to elicit risky shift on the basis of previous research. Risky shift following group discussion was not found to be different for the two types of groups, casting doubt on the widely suggested role of peer underestimation in risky shift. Nor was risky shift affected by whether or not group members stated their individual decisions publicly at the close of discussion. Larger group risky shifts were accompanied by higher self‐ratings given by group members on a number of polarity scales. In discussing the findings, we outline an explanation of group‐induced shifts in risk taking, emphasizing the motivational and informational inducements provided by group discussion whereby group members come to discard their prior positions in favor of more aspired ones.
Visual interaction in a group of introverts and extraverts
Authors: Rutter D. R. , Morley Ian E. , Graham Jane C.
Published: May 2007

Ten introverts and 10 extraverts were selected from a student population on the bask of their responses to the E.P.I. The groups contained 5 men and 5 women and were matched for Neuroticism. Each subject took part in two 4‐minute conversations, one with a male confederate, one with a female confederate. The same two confederates were used throughout the experiment, and no attempt was made to programme any aspect of their behaviour. Two trained observers, who sat behind a one way screen situated close to the speakers, recorded the visual and speech behaviour of both subject and confederate by means of a four‐channel event‐recorder. The recordings were made for the last 3 minutes of each interaction. Extraverts Looked more frequently than introverts, but there were no differences between the two groups in the proportions of time spent in Looking and eye‐contact, or in the mean length of Looks. Extraverts also spoke more frequently than introverts, a finding which may complement that for the number of Looks. The findings could not be explained by the behaviour of the confederates, since they behaved consistently across the two groups of subjects. The experiment is discussed with particular reference to Mobbs (1968) and Kendon and Cook (1969). Comparisons of methodology are made.
The categorisation process in intergroup relations
Authors: Doise Willem , Sinclair Anne
Published: May 2007

In the first two parts of the paper a distinction is made between a ‚conflict or convergence of interests' approach (Sherif) and a ‚categorisation' approach (Tajfel) in the area of the experimental study of intergroup relations. Some recent experimental findings are mentioned, and a theoretical development of the categorisation approach is proposed. In the third part a new experiment illustrating the relevance of the categorisation approach is described.
Racial identification and preference in ‚black' British children
Authors: Milner David
Published: May 2007

The aim of this study was to discover whether the pattern of out‐group oriented racial attitudes manifest among the children of various disadvantaged minority‐groups (e.g. black American children) might also be found among the children of ‚coloured' immigrants to Britain. To this end, measures of racial identification, preference, rudimentary stereotyping and social aspirations were administered to primary school children whose parents were of West Indian and Asian origin, and to native white English children for purposes of comparison. While the English children showed attitudes which consistently favoured the in‐group, both immigrant groups evidenced marked out‐group (i.e. white) orientation. One‐quarter of the Asian children and nearly one‐half of the West Indian children identified themselves with the white out‐group. The phenomenon of misidentification among children of disadvantaged racial minorities is discussed, and explanations of the difference between the West Indian and Asian groups in this respect are suggested in terms of their differing cultural backgrounds and practices, aspirations to integration, and relationship to the host community. The results of the study are reported in the context of the continuing debate over the effect of the race of the tester in racial attitude research.
The effects of reinforcement and social approval on conforming behaviour
Authors: Endler Norman S. , Minden Harold A. , North Corileen
Published: May 2007

The effects of reinforcement, social approval and sex on conformity were studied. Seventy‐two male and 72 female college Ss were divided into equal high and low need for social approval groups. Each group was assigned to 1 of 3 experimental conformity conditions: (a) True‐agree; (b) neutral; and (c) true‐disagree. The groups were tested via a social conformity apparatus. It was found that: (a) Reinforcement for agreeing with a contrived group consensus (true‐agree group) elicited more conformity than social pressure without reinforcement (neutral group), which in turn elicted more conformity than reinforcement for disagreeing with the consensus (trueA‐ disagree group); (b) females conformed more than males; (c) there was a slight tendency for high social approval Ss to conform more than low social approval Ss. Conformity was explained in terms of social learning, and it was suggested that the situational factor of reinforcement was a more important determinant of conformity than the motivational factor of social approval. The modified conformity scoring procedure used focuses on the conformity process.
Individual risk taking for self and others
Authors: Wilke Henk , Meertens Roel
Published: May 2007

In this experimental study, individual risk taking for self and others was observed for three experimental situations (the choice dilemma situations of Kogan and Wallach, 1964, the Pruitt and Teger gambling situation, 1969, and a simple one‐trial gamble game). The results of the present study suggest that one takes as much risk for oneself as for somebody else. An attempt was made to determine to what degree the results could be explained by properties of the experimental situations.
Social differentiation and social originality
Authors: Lemaine Gerard
Published: May 2007

In this article we have presented a theoretical outline and a body of empirical work relating to the processes of social differentiation and social originality.

If, in a competition, someone else seems to possess a decisive advantage or if mere comparison with this other person constitutes a threat to social identity, there are signs, in given conditions, of a tendency to differentiate oneself from the other, to be different or to do something else, to invent new criteria of being or doing with others or to combine accepted criteria in an original way. In other words, one tends to give proof of originality or, to use a Darwinian metaphor, to occupy ‘vacant places’. Doubtless the strategies described here only apply to certain social systems in which the visibility of the agent is an important social value and in which comparison may pose a threat to that identity. The restoring of identity by way of the search for otherness merits the attention of social psychology.

But originality is not necessarily accepted or not necessarily immediately. Innovation may take time, may necessitate the creation of schismatic groups and the waging of battles for recognition, etc.

We give a brief account of observations made with regard to groups of children in summer camps, laboratory experiments and the results of surveys in the scientific and artistic communities which fit into our theoretical framework. It will not be difficult for the reader to see that this article is a first step in a direction which, in our eyes, holds out a great deal of promise.
Group composition as a determinant of Kelman's social influence modes
Authors: Smith Peter B.
Published: May 2007

It is argued that compliance in groups will be highest where the composition is maximally confrontation‐generating; identification will be highest where composition is support‐generating; and internalisation will be highest where both some support and some confrontation are present. The hypotheses were tested in sixteen one‐day experimentally composed T‐groups. All the hypotheses were supported, particularly the first two. In this setting internalisation was found to be related to confrontation but not to support.
The social‐psychological study of conflict: Rejoinder to a critique
Authors: Deutsch Morton
Published: May 2007

This paper is a rejoinder to Plon's critique of the social psychology of conflict published in this Journal. The rejoinder reviews the history of American social psychology, the meaning of ‘conflict resolution’, the nature of the dilemma in the Prisoner's Dilemma, and other related matters, which Plon has apparently misconstrued. The rejoinder criticizes Plon's crude ‘economic determinism’ version of Marxist theory and briefly considers the role of power in politics. The characteristics of the present author's social‐psychological approach to conflict is outlined, and it is suggested that such an approach has direct relevance to the intellectual concerns of those who seek to bring about social change.
Understanding the complexities of group perception: broadening the domain
Authors: Hamilton David L.
Published: May 2007

Recent developments in the study of group perception have been guided by four concepts: homogeneity, essentialism, agency, and entitativity. Research on these topics has broadened the scope of questions asked, issues studied, and explanatory mechanisms that are important in the perception of groups. This article summarizes each concept, discusses its contribution to understanding group perception, and highlights unresolved questions that need investigation. Possible conceptual interpretations of the relations among these concepts and their relationship to stereotyping are then discussed. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A hierarchic sparse matrix data structure for large‐scale Hartree‐Fock/Kohn‐Sham calculations
Authors: Rubensson Emanuel H. , Rudberg Elias , Sałek Paweł
Published: May 2007

A hierarchic sparse matrix data structure for Hartree‐Fock/Kohn‐Sham calculations is presented. The data structure makes the implementation of matrix manipulations needed for large systems faster, easier, and more maintainable without loss of performance. Algorithms for symmetric matrix square and inverse Cholesky decomposition within the hierarchic framework are also described. The presented data structure is general; in addition to its use in Hartree‐Fock/Kohn‐Sham calculations, it may also be used in other research areas where matrices with similar properties are encountered. The applicability of the data structure to ab initio calculations is shown with help of benchmarks on water droplets and graphene nanoribbons. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comput Chem, 2007
Endosulfan decreases cell growth and apoptosis in human HaCaT keratinocytes: Partial ROS‐dependent ERK1/2 mechanism
Authors: Antherieu Sebastien , Ledirac Nathalie , Luzy Anne‐Pascale , Lenormand Philippe , Caron Jean‐Claude , Rahmani Roger
Published: May 2007

Endosulfan is an organochlorine insecticide described as a potential carcinogen in humans. This insecticide was recently reported to alter the mitogen‐activated protein (MAP) kinase signaling pathways and is suspected to affect cell growth and differentiation in human keratinocytes. This study was designed to assess the mitogenic, apoptogenic, and genotoxic effects of endosulfan on the HaCaT cell line. We first found that 25 µM endosulfan led to persistent extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK)1/2 phosphorylation with an accumulation of the phosphorylated form in the nucleus, probably caused by MAP kinase phosphatase (MKP) inhibition. As previously described under sustained ERK1/2 activation, cell growth was decreased: delayed confluency and 35% decrease of BrdU incorporation was demonstrated in endosulfan‐treated keratinocytes. In addition, endosulfan has been shown to generate transient reactive oxygen species (ROS), and blocking this oxidative stress by N‐acetyl cysteine (NAC) strongly prevented both persistent nuclear ERK1/2 phosphorylation and cell growth decrease. Additional experiments demonstrated that unchanged endosulfan rather than its metabolites has mutagenic effects (Ames positive without S9) and increased DNA strand breaks (Comet assay) in HaCaT cells, via a ROS‐dependent mechanism. Therefore, to assess the putative pro‐apoptotic response of damaged cells, caspases 3/7 activity and poly(ADP‐ribose)‐polymerase (PARP) cleavage were measured. The results clearly indicated that endosulfan inhibited both spontaneous and staurosporine‐induced apoptosis. Taken together, these findings strongly support that endosulfan induces ROS generation leading to sustained ERK1/2 phosphorylation and decrease in cell growth. Moreover, endosulfan was found to inhibit apoptosis and this could contribute to mutant cell survival and therefore have possible carcinogenic effects. J. Cell. Physiol. 213: 177–186, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Experimental and theoretical studies of Raman spectroscopy on 4‐mercaptopyridine aqueous solution and 4‐mercaptopyridine/Ag complex system
Authors: Zhang Ling , Bai Ying , Shang Zhiguo , Zhang Yanke , Mo Yujun
Published: May 2007

Raman scattering and surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) have been used to study the behavior of 4‐mercaptopyridine (4‐Mpy) dissolved in water and adsorbed on silver mirrors. In order to gain the actual structure and the theoretical modes of the 4‐Mpy dissolved in water and adsorbed on the surface of silver mirror, ab initio calculation at the Hartree–Fock (HF) level and density functional theory (DFT) at Beck's three‐parameter Lee‐Yang‐Parr (B3LYP) level were performed to calculate the vibrational modes and wavenumbers. 4‐Mpy/2H2O and 4‐Mpy/Ag complex systems were optimized, and then the corresponding Raman spectra were calculated and analyzed. Compared with the experimental results, the calculated results of 4‐Mpy and 4‐Mpy/2H2O complex systems obtained from DFT method were more accurate. Among the results calculated with HF method, the one with three Ag atoms was economical, which took less computer time but gave equivalent results to those with more noumber of Ag atoms. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The microplate reader: an efficient tool for the separate enzymatic analysis of sugars in plant tissues—validation of a micro‐method
Authors: Gomez Laurent , Bancel Doriane , Rubio Emilie , Vercambre Gilles
Published: May 2007

An enzymatic assay method in 96‐well microplates (MP method) is proposed for non‐structural carbohydrates (NSC) in ligneous plants. Soluble sugars were extracted from 50 mg of finely ground plant powder, in the presence of water, methanol and chloroform. The glucose, fructose and sucrose contents were successively determined in each well, although sorbitol could not be assayed under these conditions. Whatever the sugar, the precision (reproducibility), linearity (addition of specific amounts of sugars) and accuracy (comparison with method using high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC)) were excellent. This method was more specific than with HPLC, so that the recovery rate of sugars was improved. In the absence of a significant matrix effect, purification of the extract was unnecessary, thus simplifying the procedure and contributing to its robustness. A micro‐method is thus proposed which can be applied to 5 mg of plant powder. This miniaturization affects neither the precision of the MP method nor sugar concentrations. The results of starch assays further demonstrated that this micro‐method was appropriate to the analysis of NSC in small samples of woody plant tissues. Reliable, rapid and simple to perform, this micro‐method is less expensive than HPLC or other classic enzymatic methods. Copyright © 2007 Society of Chemical Industry
The evolution of backpacker destinations: the case of Zipolite, Mexico
Authors: Brenner Ludger , Fricke Jörn
Published: May 2007

Despite the growing literature on backpacker tourism, little is known about the evolutionary patterns of the places that cater to such travellers. This paper analyses, first, the way in which established and current models of tourist development conceptualise backpackers and their destinations. In addition, it offers some specific suggestions that will allow them to explain the evolution of backpacker destinations in a more detailed manner. Then, results of field research conducted at Mexico's largest backpacker resort are presented, to illustrate its particular socio‐spatial evolution. The paper concludes that, when fuelled by an increasing number of arrivals and a growing demand for comforts, what were once drifter‐dominated peripheral places may evolve gradually into well‐established ‘resorts’ that satisfy contemporary backpackers' demands for infrastructure, natural settings and ambience. Developer‐tourists with an affinity to backpacker culture are likely to become key actors as they come to gain control over land use and local economic development. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An appraisal of the psychometric properties of the Clinician version of the Apathy Evaluation Scale (AES‐C)
Authors: Clarke Diana E. , Van Reekum Robert , Patel Jigisha , Simard Martine , Gomez Everlyne , Streiner David L.
Published: May 2007

This article examines the psychometric properties of the clinician version of the Apathy Evaluation Scale (AES‐C) to determine its ability to characterize, quantify and differentiate apathy. Critical appraisals of the item‐reduction processes, effectiveness of the administration, coding and scoring procedures, and the reliability and validity of the scale were carried out. For training, administration and rating of the AES‐C, clearer guidelines, including a more standardized list of verbal and non‐verbal apathetic cues, are needed. There is evidence of high internal consistency for the scale across studies. In addition, the original study reported good test‐retest and inter‐rater reliability coefficients. However, there is a lack of replication on these more stable and informative measures of reliability and as such they warrant further investigation. The research evidence confirms that the AES‐C shows good discriminant, convergent and criterion validity. However, evidence of its predictive validity is limited. As this aspect of validity refers to the scale's ability to predict future outcomes, which is important for treatment and rehabilitation planning, further assessment of the predictive validity of the AES‐C is needed. In conclusion, the AES‐C is a reliable and valid measure for the characterization and quantification of apathy. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Magnetically enriched bone marrow‐derived macrophages loaded in vitro with iron oxide can migrate to inflammation sites in mice
Authors: Hamm Jörg , Pulito Roberta , Benedetto Sabrina , Barberis Laura , Hirsch Emilio , Poli Valeria , Silengo Lorenzo
Published: May 2007

In vitro labelling of cells permits incorporation of large amounts of iron oxide and consequently high detection sensitivity, but it remains controversial whether labelled cells would respond normally to stimuli. This question was addressed by differentiating bone marrow‐derived macrophages (BMDMs) in vitro, labelling cells with high concentrations of Endorem in vitro, and eliminating unlabelled cells by magnetic enrichment. To explore their acute inflammatory response, enriched cells were injected into mice with carrageenan‐induced inflammation, the ‘air pouch model’. Cells recovered from the inflammation site 16 h after intravenous BMDM injection into the tail vein were analysed by in vitro MRI and fluorescent microscopy. With both assays, Endorem‐labelled cells were detectable. This indicates that BMDMs, loaded with high concentrations of iron oxide in vitro, can still respond to chemokine gradients and infiltrate inflamed tissue in mice. Furthermore, by using genetically modified mice as BMDM donors, it should be possible to study the role of individual genes in macrophage recruitment. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A new era emerging for county government
Authors: Kendig Rodney L.
Published: May 2007

Summary of prospects for counties as seen by NACO's NEW COUNTY, U.S.A. program.
Metropolitan councils: The St. Louis experience
Authors: Hoadley Wyn N.
Published: May 2007

Results of survey of East West Gateway Coordinating Council on achievement of metropolitan goals.
UNIGOV: The first year
Authors: Hill R. Steven , Maxam William P.
Published: May 2007

Survey of achievements and problems of consolidated government of Indianapolis and Marion County since it began operation in January 1970.
Planners of the future: Dutch students participate
Authors: Bellush Jewel
Published: May 2007

Students are living and working in neighborhoods slated for urban renewal, challenging traditional Dutch planning concepts.
Delaware initiates reform in justice courts
Authors: Dolan Paul
Published: May 2007

Discussion of changes, under the Administration of Governor Russell W. Peterson, in setup and procedures of courts of summary jurisdiction.
Preservation v. development: A clash of ideas
Authors: Lindquist Warren T.
Published: May 2007

“No growth” policy is not the answer to preserving the environment. Conservationists and developers must evolve rational dialogue to settle differences.
A Problem—Fragmentation; one answer—Annexation
Authors: Hobbs Edward H.
Published: May 2007

Annexation may be the best answer in the public interest to “defensive incorporation” of suburban communities.
Revenue sharing proposal called inadequate by CED
Authors: Wilde Frazar B.
Published: May 2007

Present proposal does not meet needs for welfare reform, or help states improve taxing systems or chaotic state and local organizational structures; statement of policy to Committee on Ways and Means.
Students and politicians: A New Look for the '70s?
Authors: Adler Norman , Blank Blanche D.
Published: May 2007

Given a reason and a chance students in the '70s show promise of being willing to work within the system to make the system work. The difference now, for students and politicians, is the 18‐year‐old vote.
Consequences of ballot reform: The Ohio experience
Authors: Zauderer Donald G.
Published: May 2007

The debate over optimal ballot form will continue and behavior at the polls will be the ultimate test, as in Ohio which switched from the Massachusetts‐type to the Indiana‐type ballot in 1949. Results are based on a study of voting behavior from 1934 to 1964 in the Cincinnati area.
Novel well‐defined star homopolymers and star‐block copolymers of poly(n‐hexyl isocyanate) by anionic polymerization
Authors: Zorba Georgia , Pitsikalis Marinos , Hadjichristidis Nikos
Published: May 2007

Anionic polymerization high‐vacuum techniques and appropriate multifunctional initiators/additives were employed for the synthesis of novel star structures of poly(n‐hexyl isocyanate) (PHIC). A new trifunctional initiator prepared by the reaction of tris(4‐isocyanatophenyl)methane with benzyl sodium was used for the synthesis of three‐arm star PHIC. Divinyl benzene and the core‐first or the arm‐first/core‐first (in‐out) approach were utilized for the synthesis of multiarm star homopolymers, (PHIC)n, star‐block copolymers, (PHIC‐b‐PI)n, and miktoarm star copolymers, (PS)n(PHIC)n, where PS is polystyrene. The molecular characteristics obtained by size‐exclusion chromatography, equipped with refractive index and two‐angle light scattering detectors, nuclear magnetic resonance, spectroscopy, and dilute solution viscometry showed that well‐defined structures were synthesized in this study. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 45: 2387–2399, 2007
Synthesis of densely branched poly(methyl methacrylate)s via ATR copolymerization of methyl methacrylate and ethylene glycol dimethacrylate
Authors: Bouhier Marc‐Henri , Cormack Peter A. G. , Graham Susan , Sherrington David C.
Published: May 2007

Densely branched poly(methyl methacrylate)s have been synthesized by copolymerization of methyl methacrylate (MMA) and ethylene glycol dimethacrylate (EGDMA) using atom transfer free radical polymerization (ATRP). By employing the phenyl and benzyl esters of 2‐bromo‐2‐methylpropionic acid as the initiators with 2,2‐bipyridyl and Cu(I)Cl it has been possible to use high field 1H nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy to evaluate in some detail the composition and structure of the branched PMMAs obtained. Parallel molar mass size exclusion chromatographic analysis using a multi‐angle light scattering detector with a refractive index detector (MALS/SEC) has allowed the branched architecture of the products to be confirmed. Rather remarkably, high yields of branched PMMAs can be obtained without crosslinking using MMA/EGDMA molar feed ratios of up to 5/1 by appropriate adjustment of the molar feed of initiator. In particular by maintaining the EGDMA/initiator molar feed ratio ∼1/1 fully soluble products can be obtained that are densely branched since this feed ratio ensures that on average each living primary chain initiated contains on average only one branching EGDMA segment. As might be expected this controlled free radical process offers better control in the synthesis of branched polymer than the corresponding system we have reported using conventional free radical polymerization, and unlike the latter which requires the use of a chain transfer agent, the ATRP system requires no additional chain regulating component. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 45: 2375–2386, 2007