bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inhibition of the slow afterhyperpolarization restores the classical spike timing-dependent plasticity rule obeyed in layer 2/3 pyramidal cells of the prefrontal cortex
Authors: Zaitsev Aleksey V. , Anwyl Roger
Published: October 2011

The induction of long-term potentiation (LTP) and long-term depression (LTD) of excitatory postsynaptic currents was investigated in proximal synapses of layer 2/3 pyramidal cells of the rat medial prefrontal cortex. The spike timing-dependent plasticity (STDP) induction protocol of negative timing, with postsynaptic leading presynaptic stimulation of action potentials (APs), induced LTD as expected from the classical STDP rule. However, the positive STDP protocol of presynaptic leading postsynaptic stimulation of APs predominantly induced a presynaptically expressed LTD rather than the expected postsynaptically expressed LTP. Thus the induction of plasticity in layer 2/3 pyramidal cells does not obey the classical STDP rule for positive timing. This unusual STDP switched to a classical timing rule if the slow Ca2+-dependent, K+-mediated afterhyperpolarization (sAHP) was inhibited by the selective blocker N-trityl-3-pyridinemethanamine (UCL2077), by the β-adrenergic receptor agonist isoproterenol, or by the cholinergic agonist carbachol. Thus we demonstrate that neuromodulators can affect synaptic plasticity by inhibition of the sAHP. These findings shed light on a fundamental question in the field of memory research regarding how environmental and behavioral stimuli influence LTP, thereby contributing to the modulation of memory.
Poly(amidoamine) Hydrogels as Scaffolds for Cell Culturing and Conduits for Peripheral Nerve Regeneration
Authors: Fenili Fabio , Manfredi Amedea , Ranucci Elisabetta , Ferruti Paolo
Published: October 2011

Biodegradable and biocompatible poly(amidoamine)-(PAA-) based hydrogels have been considered for different tissue engineering applications. First-generation AGMA1 hydrogels, amphoteric but prevailing cationic hydrogels containing carboxylic and guanidine groups as side substituents, show satisfactory results in terms of adhesion and proliferation properties towards different cell lines. Unfortunately, these hydrogels are very swellable materials, breakable on handling, and have been found inadequate for other applications. To overcome this problem, second-generation AGMA1 hydrogels have been prepared adopting a new synthetic method. These new hydrogels exhibit good biological propertiesin vitrowith satisfactory mechanical characteristics. They are obtained in different forms and shapes and successfully testedin vivofor the regeneration of peripheral nerves. This paper reports on our recent efforts in the use of first-and second-generation PAA hydrogels as substrates for cell culturing and tubular scaffold for peripheral nerve regeneration.
Lifecourse Urbanization, Social Demography, and Health Outcomes among a National Cohort of 71,516 Adults in Thailand
Authors: Yiengprugsawan Vasoontara , Caldwell Bruce K. , Lim Lynette L.-Y. , Seubsman Sam-ang , Sleigh Adrian C.
Published: October 2011

We examine the influence of urbanization on household structure, social networks, and health in Thailand. We compare lifetime urban or rural dwellers and those who were rural as children and urban as adults. Data derived from a large national cohort of 71,516 Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University adult students participating in an on‐going longitudinal study of the health‐risk transition in Thailand. The rural‐urban group, one‐third of cohort households, was significantly different from other groups (e.g., smaller households). The rural‐rural and the urban‐urban groups often were the two extremes. Urbanization, after adjusting for covariates, was a risk factor for poor overall health and depression. Urbanization is a mediator of the health‐risk transition underway in Thailand. Health programs and policies directed at transitional health outcomes should focus on the health risks of the urbanizing population, in particular smoking, drinking, low social trust, and poor psychological health.
Fully Distributed Tunable Bandpass Filter Based on Ba0.5Sr0.5TiO3 Thin-Film Slow-Wave Structure
Authors: Delprat Sébastien L. , Oh JaeHo , Xu Feng , Li Lin , Djoumessi Erick E. , Ismail Marwa , Chaker Mohamed , Wu Ke
Published: October 2011

This paper presents simulation and measurement results of fully distributed tunable coplanar bandpass filters (BPFs) with center frequencies around 6 GHz that make use of ferroelectric Barium Strontium Titanate (BaxSr1−xTiO3 or BST-x) thin film as tunable material. The two experimental bandpass filters tested are based on a novel frequency-agile structure composed of cascaded half wavelength slow-wave resonators (2 poles) and three coupled interdigital capacitors (IDCs) optimized for bias voltage application. Devices with gap dimensions of 10 and 3 μm are designed and fabricated with a two-step process on polycrystalline Ba0.5Sr0.5TiO3 thin films deposited on alumina substrate. A frequency tunability of 9% is obtained for the 10 μm gap structure at ±30 V with 7 dB insertion loss (the BST dielectric tunability being 26% with 0.04 loss tangent for this gap size). When the structure gap is reduced to 3 μm the center frequency shifts with a constant 9 dB insertion loss from 6.95 GHz at 0 V to 9.05 GHz at ±30 V, thus yielding a filter tunability of 30% (the BST dielectric tunability being 60% with 0.04 loss tangent for this gap size), a performance comparable to some extent to localized or lumped element BPFs operating at microwave frequency (>2 GHz).
Nursing Roles and Strategies in End-of-Life Decision Making in Acute Care: A Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors: Adams Judith A. , Bailey Donald E. , Anderson Ruth A. , Docherty Sharron L.
Published: October 2011

The objective of this paper is to analyze the literature concerning nurses' roles and strategies in EOL decision making in acute care environments, synthesize the findings, and identify implications for future research. We conducted searches in CINAHL and PubMed, using a broad range of terms. The 44 articles retained for review had quantitative and qualitative designs and represented ten countries. These articles were entered into a matrix to facilitate examining patterns, themes, and relationships across studies. Three nursing roles emerged from the synthesis of the literature: information broker, supporter, and advocate, each with a set of strategies nurses use to enact the roles. Empirical evidence linking these nursing roles and strategies to patients and family members outcomes is lacking. Understanding how these strategies and activities are effective in helping patients and families make EOL decisions is an area for future research.
The Prevalence of Depression among Family Caregivers of Children with Intellectual Disability in a Rural Setting in Kenya
Authors: Mbugua Margaret Njeri , Kuria Mary W. , Ndetei David M.
Published: October 2011

Caregivers of children with intellectual disability have a great responsibility that may be stressful. The psychological well-being of the care giver may affect the quality of care given to children with intellectual disability.Objective. The objective of the study was to determine the risk of depression in caregivers of children with intellectual disability.Setting. The study was conducted at Gachie Catholic Parish, Archdiocese of Nairobi (Kenya).Design.Cross sectional, descriptive study.Method. The study was conducted among 114 caregivers registered at the Gachie Parish program (in Kenya) for the intellectual disabled children. A researcher-designed social demographic questionnaire and the Beck depression inventory were administered to those that met the inclusion criteria.Results. Seventy-nine percent (79%) of the caregivers were at risk of clinical depression.Conclusion. Majority of the caregivers of children with intellectual disability were at risk of developing clinical depression.
High Prevalence of Sinusitis in Children with Henoch-Schönlein Purpura
Authors: Nakaseko Haruna , Uemura Osamu , Nagai Takuhito , Yamakawa Satoshi , Hibi Yoshiko , Yamasaki Yasuhito , Yamamoto Masaki
Published: October 2011

We evaluated the prevalence and the types of infectious foci in oral as well as ear, nose, and throat diseases, and we examined incidence of renal involvement with active treatment for focal infection in children with Henoch-Schönlein Purpura. A total of 96 children who presented at Aichi Children's Health and Medical Center and were diagnosed as having HSP were evaluated for infectious foci in the ear, nose, throat, and oral cavities. Seventy-one of 96 children (74.0%) had some type of infectious lesion, such as sinusitis or tonsillitis, and the prevalence of sinusitis was the highest (51 cases, 53.7%). In 44 HSP patients without renal involvement at the first examination, the incidence of nephritis was lower (13.6%) than in previous reports (17–54%) due to our aggressive intervention for infectious foci.
Early Diagenesis Records and Pore Water Composition of Methane-Seep Sediments from the Southeast Hainan Basin, South China Sea
Authors: Wu Daidai , Wu Nengyou , Ye Ying , Zhang Mei , Liu Lihua , Guan Hongxiang , Cong Xiaorong
Published: October 2011

Several authigenic minerals were identified by XRD and SEM analyses in shallow sediments from the Southeast Hainan Basin, on the northern slope of South China Sea. These minerals include miscellaneous carbonates, sulphates, and framboidal pyrite, and this mineral assemblage indicates the existence of gas hydrates and a methane seep. The assemblage and fabric features of the minerals are similar to those identified in cold-seep sediments, which are thought to be related to microorganisms fostered by dissolved methane. Chemical composition of pore water shows that the concentrations of SO42-, Ca2+, Mg2+, and Sr2+ decrease clearly, and the ratios of Mg2+ to Ca2+ and Sr2+ to Ca2+ increase sharply with depth. These geochemical properties are similar to those where gas hydrates occur in the world. All results seem to indicate clearly the presence of gas hydrates or deep water oil (gas) reservoirs underneath the seafloor.
Bevacizumab Improves Quality of Life in Patients with Recurrent Glioblastoma
Authors: Nagpal Seema , Harsh Griffith , Recht Lawrence
Published: October 2011

Objective. To
quantify the benefits in survival and quality of
life in patients receiving bevacizumab (BEV) for
recurrent glioblastoma (GBM).
Methods. This is a
retrospective study of 40 adult patients with
recurrent GBM treated between 2005 and 2009 at a
single institution. All patients had initial
treatment with surgery, radiation, and concurrent
temozolomide, then monthly temozolomide. Over
250 charts were screened. Sufficient data was
available for 20 patients treated with BEV and
20 patients who did not receive BEV at the time
of recurrence. The independent living score
(ILS), designed to reward long-term independent
survival, was calculated for each patient.
Results. The mean ILS was
nearly double in the BEV group compared to the
No-BEV group (15.0 versus 8.2, , t-test). Two months after initiation of therapy, the median steroid dose dropped by over 90% in patients treated with BEV, but doubled in the NoBEV group. Median survival from the time of recurrence was significantly affected: 10.6 months in the BEV group versus 4.2 months (, log rank survival) in the NoBEV group. Conclusions. BEV increases independent living and lengthens overall survival after GBM recurrence. Reduction in steroid dose may contribute to prolonged independence.
Mindfulness Intervention for Stress Eating to Reduce Cortisol and Abdominal Fat among Overweight and Obese Women: An Exploratory Randomized Controlled Study
Authors: Daubenmier Jennifer , Kristeller Jean , Hecht Frederick M. , Maninger Nicole , Kuwata Margaret , Jhaveri Kinnari , Lustig Robert H. , Kemeny Margaret , Karan Lori , Epel Elissa
Published: October 2011

Psychological distress and elevated cortisol secretion promote abdominal fat, a feature of the Metabolic Syndrome. Effects of stress reduction interventions on abdominal fat are unknown. Forty-seven overweight/obese women (mean BMI=31.2) were randomly assigned to a 4-month intervention or waitlist group to explore effects of a mindfulness program for stress eating. We assessed mindfulness, psychological distress, eating behavior, weight, cortisol awakening response (CAR), and abdominal fat (by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) pre- and posttreatment. Treatment participants improved in mindfulness, anxiety, and external-based eating compared to control participants. Groups did not differ on average CAR, weight, or abdominal fat over time. However, obese treatment participants showed significant reductions in CAR and maintained body weight, while obese control participants had stable CAR and gained weight. Improvements in mindfulness, chronic stress, and CAR were associated with reductions in abdominal fat. This proof of concept study suggests that mindfulness training shows promise for improving eating patterns and the CAR, which may reduce abdominal fat over time.
Toxicity of Commercial Neem Extract to Earthworms (Pheretima peguana)
Authors: Muangphra Ptumporn , Gooneratne Ravi
Published: October 2011

The LC50of commercial neem extract (Sadao Thai III containing azadirachtin; NEEM) on filter paper in the earthwormPheretima peguanaat 48 h and 72 h was 3.79 and 3.33 g , respectively. In earthworms exposed to five NEEM concentrations from 0.39 (~10% of 48-h LC50) to 3.13 (~80% of 48-h LC50) g , the radial thickness of the epidermis and body wall significantly () decreased, and thickness of intestinal epithelium increased but only at high doses, approximately 25-fold above the concentration permitted for use as an insecticide in field applications (0.09 g ). NEEM significantly () increased the number of binucleated coelomocytes in the micronucleus test (detects chromosomal aberrations) at 3.13 g , approximately 35-fold higher than the recommended dose, but it did not cause coelomocyte DNA single-strand breaks in the comet assay. Thus, NEEM is cytotoxic (increase in binucleates through the inhibition of cytokinesis) but not genotoxic to earthworm coelomocytes. This study demonstrates that the recommended dosage of commercial neem extract as an insecticide in agricultural practices is safe for earthworms.
Influence of Silanization Treatment on Thermomechanical Properties of Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes: Poly(methylmethacrylate) Nanocomposites
Authors: Velasco-Santos Carlos , Martinez-Hernandez Ana Laura , Brostow Witold , Castaño Victor M.
Published: October 2011

Unfunctionalized and silanized multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWNTs) were incorporated in poly(methylmethacrylate) matrices usingin situpolymerization. Polymer-compatible functional groups on carbon nanotube (CNT) surfaces were characterized by infrared spectroscopy. These chemical moieties improve interaction at interfaces, allowing transfer of mechanical load between the matrix and the dispersed phase as reflected in the resulting improved mechanical and thermophysical properties. The composites were characterized by Raman spectroscopy to evaluate molecular level interactions and dynamical mechanical analysis. Composites with silanized CNTs have higher storage modulus (E′) than polymer reinforced with unfunctionalized nanotubes. Considering the average of the samples, only 1 wt.% of silanized nanotubes provides an increase inE′ of 165% at room temperature with respect to polymer matrix, and the increments reached are by a factor of 6.8 and 13.6 over the polymer matrix at 80°C and 90°C, respectively. 1 wt% of silanized CNTs increases the glass transition temperature of polymer matrix around 30°C. Microscratch testing results of composites show that unfunctionalized CNTs cause deeper penetration of the indenter than polymer matrix at the same force; however, the composites developed with silanized CNTs present more regular behavior than polymer reinforced with unfunctionalized CNTs.
Dendritic Cells in Human Atherosclerosis: From Circulation to Atherosclerotic Plaques
Authors: Van Vré Emily A. , Van Brussel Ilse , Bosmans Johan M. , Vrints Christiaan J. , Bult Hidde
Published: October 2011

Background. Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease with atherosclerotic plaques containing inflammatory infiltrates predominantly consisting of monocytes/macrophages and activated T cells. More recent is the implication of dendritic cells (DCs) in the disease. Since DCs were demonstrated in human arteries in 1995, numerous studies in humans suggest a role for these professional antigen-presenting cells in atherosclerosis.Aim. This paper focuses on the observations made in blood and arteries of patients with atherosclerosis. In principal, flow cytometric analyses show that circulating myeloid (m) and plasmacytoid (p) DCs are diminished in coronary artery disease, while immunohistochemical studies describe increased intimal DC counts with evolving plaque stages. Moreover, mDCs and pDCs appear to behave differently in atherosclerosis. Yet, the origin of plaque DCs and their relationship with blood DCs are unknown. Therefore, several explanations for the observed changes are postulated. In addition, the technical challenges and discrepancies in the research field are discussed.Future. Future studies in humans, in combination with experimental animal studies will unravel mechanisms leading to altered blood and plaque DCs in atherosclerosis. As DCs are crucial for inducing but also dampening immune responses, understanding their life cycle, trafficking and function in atherosclerosis will determine potential use of DCs in antiatherogenic therapies.
A Brief Review on Environmental Application of Boron Doped Diamond Electrodes as a New Way for Electrochemical Incineration of Synthetic Dyes
Authors: Peralta-Hernández J. M. , Méndez-Tovar M. , Guerra-Sánchez R. , Martínez-Huitle C. A. , Nava J. L.
Published: October 2011

The present study was stimulated by an authoritative review on decontamination of wastewaters containing synthetic organic dyes by electrochemical methods published in Martínez-Huitle and Brillas (2009). As reviewed by the authors, there have been significant efforts on investigating the decontamination of wastewaters containing synthetic dyes by electrochemical methods, and currently, more studies are being published. A high number of electrodes have been tested in this method, including boron doped diamond (BDD) anodes. In this context, many papers have demonstrated that the use of a BDD thin film in electrochemical oxidation provides total mineralization with high current efficiency of different organics in real wastewaters. And this synthetic material deposited on several supports has been recently applied to dyestuff treatment. Although, in the last two years, more reports have been published treating electrochemically synthetic dyes wastewaters using BDD, there are few reports on the use of electrooxidation processes to degrade real textile effluents. The aim of this paper is to summarize and discuss the most important and recent results available in the literature about the application of BDD electrodes for removing azo dyes in synthetic and real wastewaters.
Bone Marrow Suppression by c-Kit Blockade Enhances Tumor Growth of Colorectal Metastases through the Action of Stromal Cell-Derived Factor-1
Authors: Rupertus Kathrin , Haberl Gudrun C. Y. , Scheuer Claudia , Menger Michael D. , Schilling Martin K. , Kollmar Otto
Published: October 2011

Background. Mobilization of c-Kit+hematopoietic cells (HCs) contributes to tumor vascularization. Whereas survival and proliferation of HCs are regulated by binding of the stem cell factor to its receptor c-Kit, migration of HCs is directed by stromal cell-derived factor (SDF)-1. Therefore, targeting migration of HCs provides a promising new strategy of anti-tumor therapy.Methods. BALB/c mice () were pretreated with an anti-c-Kit antibody followed by implantation of CT26.WT-GFP colorectal cancer cells into dorsal skinfold chambers. Animals () additionally received a neutralizing anti-SDF-1 antibody. Animals () treated with a control antibody served as controls. Investigations were performed using intravital fluorescence microscopy, immunohistochemistry, flow cytometry and western blot analysis.Results. Blockade of c-Kit significantly enhanced tumor cell engraftment compared to controls due to stimulation of tumor cell proliferation and invasion without markedly affecting tumor vascularization. C-Kit blockade significantly increased VEGF and CXCR4 expression within the growing tumors. Neutralization of SDF-1 completely antagonized this anti-c-Kit-associated tumor growth by suppression of tumor neovascularization, inhibition of tumor cell proliferation and reduction of muscular infiltration.Conclusion. Our study indicates that bone marrow suppression via anti-c-Kit pretreatment enhances tumor cell engraftment of colorectal metastases due to interaction with the SDF-1/CXCR4 pathway which is involved in HC-mediated tumor angiogenesis.
Natural Products from Ethnodirected Studies: Revisiting the Ethnobiology of the Zombie Poison
Authors: Albuquerque Ulysses Paulino , Melo Joabe Gomes , Medeiros Maria Franco , Menezes Irwin Rose , Moura Geraldo Jorge , Asfora El-Deir Ana Carla , Nóbrega Alves Rômulo Romeu , de Medeiros Patrícia Muniz , de Sousa Araújo Thiago Antonio , Alves Ramos Marcelo , Silva Rafael Ricardo , Almeida Alyson Luiz , Almeida Cecília de Fátima Castelo
Published: October 2011

Wade Davis's study of Haitian “zombification” in the 1980s was a landmark in ethnobiological research. His research was an attempt to trace the origins of reports of “undead” Haitians, focusing on the preparation of the zombification poison. Starting with this influential ethnopharmacological research, this study examines advances in the pharmacology of natural products, focusing especially on those of animal-derived products. Ethnopharmacological, pharmacological, and chemical aspects are considered. We also update information on the animal species that reportedly constitute the zombie poison. Several components of the zombie powder are not unique to Haiti and are used as remedies in traditional medicine worldwide. This paper emphasizes the medicinal potential of products from zootherapy. These biological products are promising sources for the development of new drugs.
Photocatalytical Properties and Theoretical Analysis of N, Cd-Codoped TiO2Synthesized by Thermal Decomposition Method
Authors: Gao Hongtao , Lu Bing , Liu Fangfang , Liu Yuanyuan , Zhao Xian
Published: October 2011

N, Cd-codoped TiO2have been synthesized by thermal decomposition method. The products were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), UV-visible diffuse reflectance spectra (DRS), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) specific surface area analysis, respectively. The products represented good performance in photocatalytic degradation of methyl orange. The effect of the incorporation of N and Cd on electronic structure and optical properties of TiO2was studied by first-principle calculations on the basis of density functional theory (DFT). The impurity states, introduced by N 2p or Cd 5d, lied between the valence band and the conduction band. Due to dopants, the band gap of N, Cd-codoped TiO2became narrow. The electronic transition from the valence band to conduction band became easy, which could account for the observed photocatalytic performance of N, Cd-codoped TiO2. The theoretical analysis might provide a probable reference for the experimentally element-doped TiO2synthesis.
Room Temperature Synthesis and Catalytic Properties of Surfactant-Modified Ag Nanoparticles
Authors: Li Weihua , Sun Congtao , Hou Baorong , Zhou Xiaodong
Published: October 2011

Well-dispersed Ag nanoparticles with size of 20–30 nm were synthesized in water at room temperature with a self-made novel imidazoline Gemini surfactant quaternary ammonium salt of di (2-heptadecyl-1-formyl aminoethyl imidazoline) hexanediamine. Transmission electron microscopy, X-ray powder diffraction, ultraviolet-visible absorption spectra, and Fourier transform infrared ray were used to characterize the Ag nanoparticles. Results showed that the micellized aggregation of imidazoline Gemini surfactant in water, the growth of Ag initial particles, and the interaction (adsorption and coordination) between surfactant and Ag+/Ag nanoparticles took place simultaneously to form the well-dispersed Ag nanoparticles. Catalytic results show that the surface-modified Ag product was an active metal catalyst for methyl orange reduction reaction due to the effective adsorption between Ag nanoparticles and methyl orange molecules, which was of promising application in environmental protection.
Oxidative Stress, Mitochondrial Dysfunction, and Aging
Authors: Cui Hang , Kong Yahui , Zhang Hong
Published: October 2011

Aging is an intricate phenomenon characterized by progressive decline in physiological functions and increase in mortality that is often accompanied by many pathological diseases. Although aging is almost universally conserved among all organisms, the underlying molecular mechanisms of aging remain largely elusive. Many theories of aging have been proposed, including the free-radical and mitochondrial theories of aging. Both theories speculate that cumulative damage to mitochondria and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) caused by reactive oxygen species (ROS) is one of the causes of aging. Oxidative damage affects replication and transcription of mtDNA and results in a decline in mitochondrial function which in turn leads to enhanced ROS production and further damage to mtDNA. In this paper, we will present the current understanding of the interplay between ROS and mitochondria and will discuss their potential impact on aging and age-related diseases.
Dysfunctional Neurotransmitter Systems in Fibromyalgia, Their Role in Central Stress Circuitry and Pharmacological Actions on These Systems
Authors: Becker Susanne , Schweinhardt Petra
Published: October 2011

Fibromyalgia is considered a stress-related disorder, and hypo- as well as hyperactive stress systems (sympathetic nervous system and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis) have been found. Some observations raise doubts on the view that alterations in these stress systems are solely responsible for fibromyalgia symptoms. Cumulative evidence points at dysfunctional transmitter systems that may underlie the major symptoms of the condition. In addition, all transmitter systems found to be altered in fibromyalgia influence the body's stress systems. Since both transmitter and stress systems change during chronic stress, it is conceivable that both systems change in parallel, interact, and contribute to the phenotype of fibromyalgia. As we outline in this paper, subgroups of patients might exhibit varying degrees and types of transmitter dysfunction, explaining differences in symptomatoloy and contributing to the heterogeneity of fibromyalgia. The finding that not all fibromyalgia patients respond to the same medications, targeting dysfunctional transmitter systems, further supports this hypothesis.
ZnO Nanoparticles on Si, Si/Au, and Si/Au/ZnO Substrates by Mist‐Atomisation
Authors: Khusaimi Z. , Mamat M. H. , Abdullah N. , Rusop M.
Published: October 2011

ZnO nanoparticles were prepared on Si substrates by a mist‐atomisation technique. Precursor of aqueous solution zinc nitrate and HMTA were released on substrates heated at 200, 300, and 400°C confined in chamber box. The surface of Si substrate was varied, that is, gold‐seeded Si (Si/Au), ZnO nanorods on Si/Au (Si/Au/ZnO), and just Si. The samples were subsequently analysed by X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy to study their structural, surface morphology, and PL emission properties. Analysis from the XRD patterns of the films showed strong a- and c-axis lattice and of pure ZnO hexagonal wurtzite type. The crystallite size varied from 6 to 43 nm and was found to generally increase with increasing substrates′ temperatures (Ts). SEM micrographs revealed granular‐like structure throughout. Shifts pattern of PL emission at ultraviolet and visible range was found to support size changes observed. Both substrate surface type and deposition temperature were found to significantly affect crystalline growth of ZnO nanoparticles. Chemical equations and justification for growth patterns are also suggested.
Patient-Rated Importance and Receipt of Information for Colorectal Cancer Screening
Authors: Flocke Susan A. , Stange Kurt C. , Cooper Gregory S. , Wunderlich Tracy L. , Oja-Tebbe Nancy , Divine George , Lafata Jennifer Elston
Published: October 2011

Background: Physician recommendation is one of the most important determinants of obtaining colorectal cancer (CRC) screening; however, little is known about the degree to which CRC screening discussions include information that patients report as important to guide screening decisions. This study examines and compares both patient rated importance and physician communication of key information elements about CRC screening during annual physical examinations.

Methods: Design: Cross-sectional cohort. Setting: 26 ambulatory clinics of an integrated delivery system in the Midwest. Participants: 64 primary care physicians and 415 patients aged 50 to 80 due for CRC screening. Patients completed a previsit survey to assess importance of specific information when making a preventive screening decision. Visits were audio recorded to assess the content of screening discussions.

Results: Most patients rated test accuracy (85%), testing alternatives (83%), the pros and cons of testing (86%), and the testing process (78%) very important when making preventive screening decisions. Ninety-one percent of visits included a CRC screening discussion; however, CRC screening talk rarely included information that patients rated as important. Physicians infrequently asked whether patients had questions pertaining to CRC screening (5%); however, 49% of patients asked a CRC screening question, with the vast majority pertaining to screening logistics.

Conclusions: Audio recordings confirm that discussions of CRC screening are often lacking information that patients indicate is very important when making preventive health decisions and patient questions during the visit are not eliciting information to fill the gap.

Impact: These findings provide actionable information to improve CRC screening discussions. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 20(10); 2168–73. ©2011 AACR.
A Case Study of the Suicide of a Gifted Female Adolescent: Implications for Prediction and Prevention
Authors: Hyatt Laurie
Published: October 2011

In this case study focusing on a gifted adolescent female who took her life at the age of 18 using a firearm, the researcher investigated the personal, environmental, and cultural variables that may have contributed to her suicide. Data were collected from interviews, documents, and other artifacts, including a videotape that was a compilation of events throughout the subject's life. This was a psychological autopsy in which the thoughts, feelings, and actions of a brilliant yet tormented young female were studied after her death by suicide. The purpose was to determine what factors led her to end her pain by choosing death over life. Implications from the findings include the need for changes in the education of gifted children and adolescents. In addition, parents, teachers, and counselors need more in-depth information about the characteristics of gifted students and about the warning signs for suicide so that suicide can be prevented.
A Qualitative Approach to Portfolios: The Early Assessment for Exceptional Potential Model
Authors: Shaklee Beverly D. , Viechnicki Karen J.
Published: October 2011

The purpose of this article is to examine the creation of a portfolio assessment model based on qualitative research principles. Four assumptions provide the scaffolding for working with portfolios in the classroom: designing authentic learning opportunities; interaction of assessment, curriculum, and instruction; multiple criteria derived from multiple sources; and systematic teacher preparation. In addition, we examine the qualitative research procedures which were embedded in the development of the Early Assessment for Exceptional Potential (EAEP) model and provide support for meeting the standards of credibility, transferability, dependability, and confirmability of the research design (Guba & Lincoln, 1981).
Experimental investigation on equivalent properties of particle reinforced silicone rubber: Improvement of soft tooling process
Authors: Nandi A. K. , Cingi C. , Datta S. , Orkus J.
Published: October 2011

The main disadvantage in soft tooling process using conventional flexible reactive polymeric mould materials, namely silicone rubber, is the longer solidification time of (wax/plastic) patterns that yields to reduce the rapidity of the process to a great extent, which is not desirable in the present competitive market. The approach of particle reinforcement with mould materials is introduced here to reduce the cooling time of soft tooling process and the resulting cooling time is experimentally investigated in considering a case of manufacturing of a typical wax pattern with aluminium particle–reinforced silicone rubber mould material. It is observed that cooling time is significantly condensed, particularly with higher loading condition of aluminium filler. This is due to the increase of equivalent thermal conductivity of mould material. However, it is also noticed that at the same time, the stiffness of mould becomes high due to the increase of equivalent modulus of elasticity of mould material. Therefore, in order to effectively utilize the particle-reinforced silicone rubber for preparing mould, it is important to have a perceptive on the equivalent thermal conductivity and modulus of elasticity of composite mould materials with different filler loadings. Based on this realization, an extensive study is carried out to find the effect on equivalent thermal properties and modulus of elasticity of silicone rubber composite mould materials with the reinforcement of various metallic and non-metallic filler particles independently through rigorous experimentation and correlation of experimental findings with the models cited in literatures.
Activity and intervention: On problem solving, discourse, and the rest
Authors: Seeger Falk
Published: October 2011

In a fairly associative way, this commentary is asking a couple of questions that came up as a result of my reading of the contributions collected in this special issue of Theory & Psychology. Without claiming to hold privileged access to the future, it will be asked what might or should be clarified next in advancing from the high level of reasoning and intervening presented by the present contributions. The following questions are proposed: How can we foster the solution of problems and the democratic discourse in a societal practice that is at the same time global and local? How can we grasp and contribute to the life of objects that in turn regulate our lives and our research efforts? How can we establish solidarity as the fundament of social reason? And, finally, how could we be open and respectful not only to the situatedness of our fellow citizens but also to their sufferings?
Design experimentation and mutual appropriation: Two strategies for university/community collaborative after-school interventions
Authors: Downing-Wilson Deborah , Lecusay Robert , Cole Michael
Published: October 2011

This paper explores a contrast between two strategies of intervention research. The first strategy, referred to as design experimentation, came to prominence through the writing of Ann Brown and Allan Collins. Design experiments were described as attempts to engineer innovative learning environments and simultaneously understand salient aspects of human cognition and learning. The core of the method is to place a version of a learning design into the world and iteratively revise the design in light of results from each implementation. The second strategy is referred to as mutual appropriation, a term used by Newman, Griffin, and Cole to describe teaching/learning processes in classrooms, but subsequently introduced into the intervention literature by Brown and Campione to describe an intervention process in which the nature of the intervention is not pre-specified, but negotiated among participants over time. We endeavor to show that a mutual appropriation approach can help the field create interventions which are themselves developmental in their fundamental methodology.
Cultural-historical activity theory and interventionist methodology: Classical legacy and contemporary developments
Authors: Sannino Annalisa , Sutter Berthel
Published: October 2011

The article discusses the growing interest in cultural-historical activity theory (CHAT) and its potential to promote change in work and educational practices through research interventions. Seeds for research interventions in CHAT are identified in the rich heritage of the works of Vygotsky and other classic authors. Particular attention is devoted to Vygotsky’s epistemic reasoning in “The Historical Meaning of the Crisis in Psychology” and to his emphasis on the use of an indirect method in psychological investigations. In “The Historical Meaning of the Crisis in Psychology,” Vygotsky formulated a program for the development of psychological theory and methodology. The article points out that the future of activity theory depends on the understanding and creative development of this heritage. On this basis, interventionism is presented as a central aspect in CHAT. Historical and theoretical foundations of CHAT are connected to current methodological implementations of interventionist research such as the Change Laboratory, the Clinic of Activity, and the Fifth Dimension.
Activity theory as an activist and interventionist theory
Authors: Sannino Annalisa
Published: October 2011

This article presents arguments used in current discussions on potential shortcomings of contemporary works within activity theory concerning subjectivity and the use of conceptual models such as the triangular representation of the activity system. It documents the history of activity theory as an activist and interventionist theory. It suggests that advances in activity theory depend on the ability of those within this framework to establish fruitful connections between the classic heritage and challenging possibilities of societal change. The main arguments of the critiques are examined in this historical perspective. Combined with design and implementation of material transformations, both the models and the voices of the subjects act as mediators and are embedded in collective change efforts. The article indicates a possible direction to reorient the current discussions toward interventionist methods developed within the framework of activity theory, namely the Change Laboratory, the Clinic of Activity, and the Fifth Dimension.
From change to development: Expanding the concept of intervention
Authors: Virkkunen Jaakko , Schaupp Marika
Published: October 2011

The ongoing societal transformation triggered by the information and communication technologies revolution challenges many established forms of activity and tightens interconnections between activities. This historical transformation is a challenge for cultural-historical activity theory and highlights the importance of inter-activity connections. In this article, we claim that the key ideas of the theory that were first developed in the context of experimental psychology and education, namely the zone of proximal development, theoretical-genetic thinking, and formative intervention, should be extended and used in the analysis of developmental processes taking place “in the wild”, focusing on how developmental challenges arise within one activity system and how potential tools are provided by another. In this context, supporting development calls for a chain of developmental interventions within an evolving inter-activity relationship. As an example, we analyze the co-development of the competence of an in-house developer and the work-development activity in a Finnish road-building company.
Power, politics, and intervention theory: Lessons from organization studies
Authors: Blackler Frank
Published: October 2011

Accounts of “double stimulation” and “ascent from the abstract to the concrete” as discussed in classroom and workshop studies tend to overlook the dynamics of power and politics. Such dynamics are more obvious in less controlled settings. Two reports of collective learning in work settings illustrate the point. In one, the “germ cell” of a new approach was heavily contested as people manoeuvred to establish the legitimacy of their contrasting positions. In the other, the “ascent” from the germ cell to new practice was contested, with entrenched attitudes and relationships blocking new developments. The relevance of such issues for activity theory is considered through a review of ways in which power and politics have been theorized in organization studies. Power can be conceptualized as both the medium for, and the product of, collective actions. Its study raises important questions about how learning interventions themselves should be understood and managed.
From design experiments to formative interventions
Authors: Engeström Yrjö
Published: October 2011

So-called “design experiments” have been presented as a radical alternative to traditional experimental designs in behavioral sciences. A closer scrutiny of design experiments shows that they share the basic linear methodology of traditional randomized controlled trials, and thus ignore resistance and agency of learners as a source of surprise and novelty. Formative interventions based on Vygotsky’s principle of double stimulation offer an alternative that builds on and purposefully fosters learners’ agency. Formative interventions may be characterized with the help of an argumentative grammar which proposes (a) the collective activity system as a unit of analysis, (b) contradictions as a source of change and development, (c) agency as a crucial layer of causality, and (d) transformation of practice as a form of expansive concept formation. These four epistemic tenets are concretized with the help of analysis of data from a Change Laboratory formative experiment conducted in a Finnish hospital. The analysis shows that double stimulation is a multi-layered and longitudinal process in which both the initial problem situation (first stimulus) and the mediating conceptual tool (second stimulus) are reformulated and enriched in successive steps. Such a process of double stimulation generates a thirdness, a new concept for the activity under transformation.
How to analyze and promote developmental activity research?
Authors: Sutter Berthel
Published: October 2011

Based on critical readings of the three main contributions of the special issue and on my own research experiences, the article points out three related features of developmental activity research projects as particularly challenging for the analysis and advancement of cultural-historical activity theory (CHAT). One feature is the nature of the joint developmental project. A second feature is the researchers’ role in the joint developmental activity. The third feature is the focus on the transformations of the central artifacts that make up the joint project. Finally, with departure from the stance that developmental activity research projects are propelled by two kinds of practitioners—the practitioners of research and the practitioners of another activity—which may support each other not only in practical matters but also with regard to concepts and perspectives, I consider advancement of CHAT methodology by outlining a beyond-interventionist methodology.
Operational conditions
Authors: Kelly Janet C
Published: October 2011

Using a three-dimensional ethical role-specific model, this article considers the dual loyalty conflict between following military orders and professional codes of practice in an operational military environment when a patient soldier refuses life-saving medical treatment and where their legal capacity is questionable. The article suggests that although every competent patient has the right to refuse medical treatment even though they may die as a consequence. Ordinarily, it is unethical to exert any undue influence on a patient to accept medical treatment, in a military operational environment where attack from the enemy is likely, it may be reasonable and understandable to exert undue influence over a patient when they lack legal capacity.
Guided Reading in Inclusive Middle Years Classrooms
Authors: Lyons Wanda , Thompson Scott Anthony
Published: October 2011

Teachers in inclusive classrooms are challenged to provide reading instruction for students with a wide range of instructional levels. This article reports on the implementation of guided reading in four middle years inclusive classrooms, the impact on student engagement and reading progress, and teacher perspectives on the guided reading approach.
Residential Segregation and Disparities in Health Care Services Utilization
Authors: Gaskin Darrell J. , Dinwiddie Gniesha Y. , Chan Kitty S. , McCleary Rachael
Published: October 2011

Using data from the 2006 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey and the 2000 Census, the authors explored whether race/ethnic disparities in health care use were associated with residential segregation. They used five measures of health care use: office-based physician visits, outpatient department physician visits, visits to nurses and physician’s assistants, visits to other health professionals, and having a usual source of care. For each individual, the authors controlled for age, gender, marital status, insurance status, income, educational attainment, employment status, region, and health status. The authors used the racial–ethnic composition of the zip code to control for residential segregation. The findings suggest that disparities in health care utilization are related to both individuals’ racial and ethnic identity and the racial and ethnic composition of their communities. Therefore, efforts to improve access to health care services and to eliminate health care disparities for African Americans and Hispanics should not only focus on individual-level factors but also include community-level factors.
Socioeconomic differences in outpatient healthcare utilisation are mainly seen for musculoskeletal problems in groups with poor self-rated health
Authors: Kristenson Margareta , Lundberg Johanna , Garvin Peter
Published: October 2011

Aim: To assess whether there are socioeconomic (SES) differences in outpatient visits within groups of comparable morbidity (medical disease and self-rated health) and whether psychosocial factors can explain these differences. Methods: Baseline data for SES, presence of disease, self-rated health (SRH), and psychosocial factors were collected during 2003–04 from 923 men and women aged 45–69 years in southeast Sweden. Outcome data were all registered outpatient healthcare visits to physicians during 2004–08. Cumulative incidences and standardised rate ratios (SSR) were calculated for strata of comparable morbidity for all visits, for visits due to cardiovascular disorders (CVD)/diabetes and for musculoskeletal problems. Results: Low SES was associated with more outpatient visits due to musculoskeletal problems (SRR for education 1.52, 95% CI 1.35–1.73; for occupation 1.40, 95% CI 1.26–1.56) and accentuated in groups with poor SRH. The SES effect was significant for visits to primary care and to hospitals, for men and women, and independent of present disease, SRH, and psychosocial factors. Low SES was significantly associated with more total outpatient visits at primary healthcare centres. In contrast, for outpatient visits due to CVD/diabetes, high SES was related to more visits to hospitals among people with good SRH at baseline. Conclusions: We found a consistent pattern for outpatient visits related to musculoskeletal problems where people with low SES counted more visits and this was most prominent in groups of poor SRH. The results demonstrate the need to apply different morbidity measures when studying inequalities in healthcare utilisation.