bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neural coding of formant‐exaggerated speech in the infant brain
Authors: Zhang Yang , Koerner Tess , Miller Sharon , Grice‐Patil Zach , Svec Adam , Akbari David , Tusler Liz , Carney Edward
Published: November 2010

Speech scientists have long proposed that formant exaggeration in infant‐directed speech plays an important role in language acquisition. This event‐related potential (ERP) study investigated neural coding of formant‐exaggerated speech in 6–12‐month‐old infants. Two synthetic /i/ vowels were presented in alternating blocks to test the effects of formant exaggeration. ERP waveform analysis showed significantly enhanced N250 for formant exaggeration, which was more prominent in the right hemisphere than the left. Time‐frequency analysis indicated increased neural synchronization for processing formant‐exaggerated speech in the delta band at frontal‐central‐parietal electrode sites as well as in the theta band at frontal‐central sites. Minimum norm estimates further revealed a bilateral temporal‐parietal‐frontal neural network in the infant brain sensitive to formant exaggeration. Collectively, these results provide the first evidence that formant expansion in infant‐directed speech enhances neural activities for phonetic encoding and language learning.
Differential effects of reasoning and speed training in children
Authors: Mackey Allyson P. , Hill Susanna S. , Stone Susan I. , Bunge Silvia A.
Published: November 2010

The goal of this study was to determine whether intensive training can ameliorate cognitive skills in children. Children aged 7 to 9 from low socioeconomic backgrounds participated in one of two cognitive training programs for 60 minutes/day and 2 days/week, for a total of 8 weeks. Both training programs consisted of commercially available computerized and non‐computerized games. Reasoning training emphasized planning and relational integration; speed training emphasized rapid visual detection and rapid motor responses. Standard assessments of reasoning ability – the Test of Non‐Verbal Intelligence (TONI‐3) and cognitive speed (Coding B from WISC IV) – were administered to all children before and after training. Neither group was exposed to these standardized tests during training. Children in the reasoning group improved substantially on TONI (Cohen’s d = 1.51), exhibiting an average increase of 10 points in Performance IQ, but did not improve on Coding. By contrast, children in the speed group improved substantially on Coding (d = 1.15), but did not improve on TONI. Counter to widespread belief, these results indicate that both fluid reasoning and processing speed are modifiable by training.
Using confirmatory factor analysis to understand executive control in preschool children: sources of variation in emergent mathematic achievement
Authors: Bull Rebecca , Espy Kimberly Andrews , Wiebe Sandra A. , Sheffield Tiffany D. , Nelson Jennifer Mize
Published: November 2010

Latent variable modeling methods have demonstrated utility for understanding the structure of executive control (EC) across development. These methods are utilized to better characterize the relation between EC and mathematics achievement in the preschool period, and to understand contributing sources of individual variation. Using the sample and battery of laboratory tasks described in Wiebe, Espy and Charak (2008), latent EC was related strongly to emergent mathematics achievement in preschool, and was robust after controlling for crystallized intellectual skills. The relation between crystallized skills and emergent mathematics differed between girls and boys, although the predictive association between EC and mathematics did not. Two dimensions of the child ’s social environment contributed to mathematics achievement: social network support through its relation to EC and environmental stressors through its relation with crystallized skills. These findings underscore the need to examine the dimensions, mechanisms, and individual pathways that influence the development of early competence in basic cognitive processes that underpin early academic achievement.
SELECTION OF WEIGHTS FOR WEIGHTED MODEL AVERAGING
Authors: Garthwaite Paul H. , Mubwandarikwa Emmanuel
Published: November 2010

We address the task of choosing prior weights for models that are to be used for weighted model averaging. Models that are very similar should usually be given smaller weights than models that are quite distinct. Otherwise, the importance of a model in the weighted average could be increased by augmenting the set of models with duplicates of the model or virtual duplicates of it. Similarly, the importance of a particular model feature (a certain covariate, say) could be exaggerated by including many models with that feature. Ways of forming a correlation matrix that reflects the similarity between models are suggested. Then, weighting schemes are proposed that assign prior weights to models on the basis of this matrix. The weighting schemes give smaller weights to models that are more highly correlated. Other desirable properties of a weighting scheme are identified, and we examine the extent to which these properties are held by the proposed methods. The weighting schemes are applied to real data, and prior weights, posterior weights and Bayesian model averages are determined. For these data, empirical Bayes methods were used to form the correlation matrices that yield the prior weights. Predictive variances are examined, as empirical Bayes methods can result in unrealistically small variances.
FORECASTING VOLATILITY WITH THE MULTIFRACTAL RANDOM WALK MODEL
Authors: Duchon Jean , Robert Raoul , Vargas Vincent
Published: November 2010

We study the problem of forecasting volatility for the multifractal random walk model. In order to avoid the ill‐posed problem of estimating the correlation length T of the model, we introduce a limiting object defined in a quotient space; formally, this object is an infinite range log volatility. For this object and the nonlimiting object, we obtain precise prediction formulas and we apply them to the problem of forecasting volatility and pricing options with the MRW model in the absence of a reliable estimate of σ and T.
Do cultural diversity and human rights make a good match?
Authors: Donders Yvonne
Published: November 2010

The link between cultural diversity and human rights was clearly established by the Universal Declaration on Cultural Diversity, adopted by the member states of UNESCO in 2001, which holds that “the defence of cultural diversity is … inseparable from respect for human dignity” and that it “ implies a commitment to human rights and fundamental freedoms”. The UNESCO Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions, adopted in 2005, states that “cultural diversity can be protected and promoted only if human rights and fundamental freedoms … are guaranteed” (Article 2[1]). The precise relationship between cultural diversity and human rights, however, is not clarified and thus leaves room for further exploration. This contribution analyses the issues surrounding the relationship between cultural diversity and human rights, in particular cultural rights. Firstly, it addresses general human rights issues such as universality and cultural relativism and the principles of equality and non‐discrimination. Secondly, it explores the scope of cultural rights, as well as the cultural dimension of human rights. Thirdly, several cases are discussed in which human rights were invoked to protect cultural interests, confirming the value of cultural diversity. Finally, some concluding remarks are presented, indicating which areas require attention in order to further improve the promotion and protection of human rights in relation to cultural diversity.
The importance of language policies and multilingualism for cultural diversity
Authors: Lo Bianco Joseph
Published: November 2010

The article addresses the contribution of multilingualism to cultural diversity and the importance of explicit, comprehensive and public language planning to secure a stronger future for endangered indigenous and immigrant languages. It is critically important to develop language policies that ensure the access of minority populations to prestigious forms of national standard languages and literacies while supporting the intergenerational retention of minority languages, both indigenous and immigrant languages. These twin objectives are complementary but require a more expert practice of language planning. The multilingualism which is advocated aims to be nationally cohesive, economically productive and socially just.

An enhanced practice of intervention on behalf of multilingualism is discussed in sections devoted to the mechanisms and activity of language policy‐making. Contemporary globalisation is a challenge for language diversity but in some ways makes the intergenerational retention of diverse languages more feasible than under conditions of strict assimilation as practiced by linguistically defined nation‐states. Also potentially supportive of multilingualism are the voice‐based communication technologies that overcome the tyranny of distance and dispersal, and promise access to information, communication and solidarity for preliterate groups or those that have limited literacy. The roles of language in memory and cultural production underscore how central language in its various genres is to culture. As a result, efforts to appreciate and foster human differences require awareness of the importance of multilingualism. The endangered state of many of the world's languages and the now almost universal phenomenon of multiculturalism make the practice of language planning a central instrument for states, international agencies and non‐governmental bodies.
Cultural perspectives on translation
Authors: Brisset Annie
Published: November 2010

The idea of culture is closely linked to translation, but it has evolved a great deal since translation studies emerged as an autonomous discipline. Initially culture was understood as a monolithic whole, coextensive with the use of a language that was thought to reflect a particular life style and vision of the world. Nevertheless equality between languages in relation to naming reduced the differences between cultures that might have been expected to hinder transfer of the meanings to be expressed. With postcolonialism, this linguistic approach to culture was replaced by an approach incorporating human factors. It became apparent that translation is a fiduciary operation between partners in an often asymmetrical relationship. The critique of translation practices drawing on anthropology revealed the relations of domination between translating and translated cultures. This cultural turn of translation called for an ethics of difference that respects identities. Increasingly translation practices that had been observed in the context of colonialisation, in distant times and cultures, were examined in the proximity of contemporary societies. Translation studies then began borrowing its models from sociology. It focused on agents and institutions and on the interests underlying the flow of translation, both within particular societies and on a global scale. On the edges of this sociography, the sociology of communication makes it possible to reintegrate the discursive components of translation. A number of factors, including new technologies, globalisation, conflicts and migrations, have led the forms and media of intercultural mediation to diversify, requiring new theorisations. Formerly the dominant paradigm, western translation studies is now incorporating insights from other cultures, which entails a revision of its concepts and models.
Media and the representation of Others
Authors: Fürsich Elfriede
Published: November 2010

This article criticises the role the mass media has played in constructing an idea of the Other, that is, people outside the national mainstream or other nationalities. It explains how the media promote or hinder a positive outlook on cultural diversity. Based on a review of the scholarly debate on media representations of Others, it identifies current obstacles to fair representations in media production, content and reception. This analysis results in a set of concrete strategies that overcome these problems and that stipulate a rethinking of the relationship between media and cultural diversity. The central argument is that culture should be understood as a dynamic process as opposed to being static and essential. Therefore, the media have to be situated as institutions that allow for cultural development: the media have to be positioned as enablers and not simply as preservers of cultural diversity.
Climate change and cultural diversity
Authors: Wisner Ben
Published: November 2010

Cultures and climate are changing. These changes interact with local knowledge and practice. Research has focused on technical questions, such as how small farmers and livestock keepers understand seasonal forecasts, veterinary problems or market conditions. However, there is a more holistic way of engaging local knowledge. Rural people utilise external technical ideas and tools, even complex ones, that complement their own concepts and experience of change. However, there are obstacles to overcome in generating such hybrid local knowledge. Firstly, there is a long history of domination of rural people by urban elites, including the assumed superiority of urban or high culture versus rural, vernacular or low culture. A second obstacle comes from the frequent use of science as justification to force rural people to do what governments want. Experience of exclusion and displacement has left a residue of bitterness and suspicion among many rural people. A third obstacle involves misuse of one‐size‐fits‐all methods. No single, homogeneous knowledge exists in a locality. Rather there are women's forms of knowledge and the knowledge of men and elders and the knowledge of young people and children, which are differentiated also by occupation and by ethnicity. In the face of such cultural diversity an incompetent use of standardised participatory methods yields poor results and may alienate residents.
Cultural diversity and conservation
Authors: Brosius J. Peter , Hitchner Sarah L.
Published: November 2010

“The essence of tyranny is the denial of complexity”. Swiss historian Jacob Burckhardt

The biocultural perspective, a direct result of the crisis narrative regarding cultural and biological extinctions, overemphasises the homogenising effects of globalisation and fails to recognise processes that actively produce diversity. Cartographic visualisations depicting overlapping zones of biological and cultural diversity simplify complex realities and provide little guidance for policy and practice. Moving beyond this perspective requires problematisation of essentialist notions of culture, analysis of the politics surrounding the production of knowledge, and acknowledgement of the anthropogenic nature of landscapes often deemed “pristine”. The biocultural perspective is reviewed within the context of recent trends in conservation, from community‐based conservation to the more recent “Strategic Turn” in conservation. To define a new perspective linking cultural diversity and conservation, the authors argue that we need a new politics of knowledge that: (a) moves beyond notions of TEK as the only valid form of local knowledge that can be integrated into conservation planning, (b) examines how local perspectives are translated between scales, and (c) creates new linkages between local knowledge and the policy domain. This new politics of knowledge can help make visible multiple actors, multiple forms of agency, and multiple regimes of credibility and can elucidate the ways in which knowledge about cultural diversity and biological diversity is produced, circulated, and incorporated into decision‐making.
Serotonin transporter promoter region (5‐HTTLPR) polymorphism predicts resting respiratory sinus arrhythmia
Authors: Ellis Alissa J. , Beevers Christopher G. , Hixon J. Gregory , McGeary John E.
Published: November 2010

Respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA) is often conceptualized as an index of physiological flexibility that has been related to emotion regulatory capacity. Although behavioral genetics research indicates that RSA is partly heritable, relatively few molecular genetics studies have been conducted. We examined whether the serotonin transporter promoter region (5‐HTTLPR) polymorphism was associated with resting RSA among healthy young adults (N=71). Short 5‐HTTLPR allele carriers had significantly lower resting RSA than long 5‐HTTLPR homozygotes. Genotype explained 5% of the variance in resting RSA. Although firm conclusions depend on further study, the short allele of the 5‐HTTLPR polymorphism may contribute to individual differences in RSA and its behavioral correlates.
Coffee waste as an alternative fertilizer with soil improving properties for sandy soils in humid tropical environments
Authors: Kasongo R. K. , Verdoodt A. , Kanyankagote P. , Baert G. , Ranst E. Van
Published: November 2010

Arenosols cover extensive areas in coffee producing, humid tropical countries of Sub‐Sahara Africa (Angola, DR Congo) and Southern America (Brazil). A laboratory experiment was undertaken to examine the potential of using coffee waste to improve the physico‐chemical properties of an Arenosol from DR Congo. The amendment was applied at three rates to the topsoil and incubated in soil columns at field moisture capacity for 24 months. A control without any amendment was integral to the completely randomized experimental design involving three replicates. The soil columns were watered weekly with an amount of distilled water approximating to 87% of the average rainfall. Every 3 months, the soil chemical properties and the fraction of leached water and cations were measured. All application rates raised soil pH above 5.5 within 3 months. Exchangeable Ca, Mg and K showed respectively, 5 to 7‐, 2 to 3‐ and 7 to 14‐fold increases with increasing application rates. Organic C and total N significantly increased within 6 months to ca. 1.5 and 0.12% respectively, inducing a decrease in the C/N ratio from 17 to 13. The combined action of increasing soil pH and organic C contributed to a significant increase in cation exchange capacity. Increases in available P were significant, but temporary, with maximum values attained at 9 months. Coffee waste application significantly increased the fraction of retained soil water from 53% to 60%. It promoted the retention of basic cations, immobilized Mn, but increased the mobility of Fe. Coffee waste has the potential to be used as a liming material, an NPK fertilizer and has the benefits also of increasing water and nutrient retention.
The amelioration effects of low temperature biochar generated from nine crop residues on an acidic Ultisol
Authors: Yuan J.‐H. , Xu R.‐K.
Published: November 2010

Biochar was prepared using a low temperature pyrolysis method from nine plant materials including non‐leguminous straw from canola, wheat, corn, rice and rice hull and leguminous straw from soybean, peanut, faba bean and mung bean. Soil pH increased during incubation of the soil with all nine biochar samples added at 10 g/kg. The biochar from legume materials resulted in greater increases in soil pH than from non‐legume materials. The addition of biochar also increased exchangeable base cations, effective cation exchange capacity, and base saturation, whereas soil exchangeable Al and exchangeable acidity decreased as expected. The liming effects of the biochar samples on soil acidity correlated with alkalinity with a close linear correlation between soil pH and biochar alkalinity (R2 = 0.95). Therefore, biochar alkalinity is a key factor in controlling the liming effect on acid soils. The incorporation of biochar from crop residues, especially from leguminous plants, can both correct soil acidity and improve soil fertility.
If You Are So Smart, Why Aren't You an Entrepreneur? Returns to Cognitive and Social Ability: Entrepreneurs Versus Employees
Authors: Hartog Joop , Van Praag Mirjam , Van Der Sluis Justin
Published: November 2010

How valuable are cognitive and social abilities for entrepreneurs’ relative to employees’ earnings? We answer three questions: (1) To what extent does a composite measure of ability affect an entrepreneur's earnings relative to wages earned by employees? (2) Do different cognitive abilities (e.g., math ability, language, or verbal ability) and social ability affect earnings of entrepreneurs and employees differently?, and (3) Does the balance in these measured ability levels affect an individual's earnings? Our (difference‐of‐difference) estimates of the returns to ability for spells in entrepreneurship versus wage employment account for selectivity into entrepreneurial positions insofar as they are determined by fixed individual characteristics. Our robust results provide the following answers to the three questions: General ability has a stronger impact on entrepreneurial incomes than on wages. Moreover, entrepreneurs and employees benefit from different sets of specific abilities: verbal and clerical abilities have a stronger impact on wages, whereas mathematical, social, and technical ability are more valuable for entrepreneurs. The balance in the various kinds of ability also generates a higher income, but only for entrepreneurs: This finding supports Lazear's Jack‐of‐all‐Trades theory.
Accounting Scandals in IPO Firms: Do Underwriters and VCs Help?
Authors: Agrawal Anup , Cooper Tommy
Published: November 2010

We examine whether underwriter reputation, venture capitalist (VC) backing, and VC reputation are related to the probability that a newly public firm has serious accounting problems. Using a novel data set, we find that the probability of restatement by an initial public offering (IPO) firm is positively related to underwriter reputation and negatively related to VC backing, VC reputation, and VC maturity. Our results do not appear to be driven by the endogeneity of underwriter reputation or VC backing. Our findings suggest that while VCs positively influence the financial reporting quality of IPO firms, underwriters’ concerns about revenue generation outweigh their concerns about reputation.
Group Status and Entrepreneurship
Authors: Parker Simon C. , Van Praag Mirjam
Published: November 2010

Do unfettered markets produce too many or too few entrepreneurs? Two seminal papers [Stiglitz and Weiss (1981)andde Meza and Webb (1987)] obtained ambiguous answers to this question based on different assumptions about the character of information asymmetries in credit markets. The present paper approaches the same question but using a labor market model in which income is determined by ability and individuals derive utility from income and occupational group status. Occupational group status for entrepreneurs depends on the average entrepreneurial income (due to ex post screening by banks), whereas status for wage employees depends on their own income and ability (due to ex ante screening by employers). Thus, individuals create externalities through their occupational choice. It is shown that there can be too many or too few entrepreneurs in equilibrium depending on the marginal returns to ability in entrepreneurship relative to paid employment; this enables the researcher to use independent evidence about occupational marginal returns to identify the relevant equilibrium likely to arise in practice, together with the likely appropriate policy responses. Based on this approach, we suggest that there may be too many (low ability) entrepreneurs in the USA.
Protecting aquatic ecosystems in heavily allocated river systems: the case of the Oldman River Basin, Alberta
Authors: POIRIER BRYAN A. , DE LOË ROB C.
Published: November 2010

Initiatives aimed at protecting aquatic ecosystems often prove difficult to implement—particularly in water‐stressed, semi‐arid regions where the demand for water for human consumption is high. This article reports on an investigation of the factors that shaped the development and implementation of policies for aquatic ecosystem protection in the Oldman River Basin (ORB), a crucial watershed in semi‐arid southern Alberta. The analysis reveals critical cultural and historical considerations that confront those attempting to protect and restore aquatic ecosystems in the ORB and highlights specific factors that influence implementation of measures to protect it. In addition to the most basic consideration—demand for water exceeds supplies—eight specific factors that influenced aquatic ecosystem protection in this region are identified and evaluated. These include (1) clarity of actors’ roles/ jurisdictional responsibilities; (2) communication; (3) definition of key terms; (4) funding and organizational capacity; (5) leadership; (6) legal standing; (7) data and monitoring; and (8) public education. We argue that while these factors are important, critical cultural and historical considerations that influence water policy in the province also must be addressed in any efforts to protect aquatic ecosystems in southern Alberta.
Wettability of Aluminum–Magnesium Alloys on Silicon Carbide Substrates
Authors: Candan Ercan , Atkinson Helen V. , Turen Yunus , Salaoru Iulia , Candan Sennur
Published: November 2010

Wettability between the liquid matrix and the reinforcement is important for the processing of metal matrix composites; the contact angle can be measured with the sessile drop method. However, for the wetting angle of liquid Al–Mg alloys on ceramics, it is difficult to obtain an accurate measurement because aluminum is easily oxidized and the rate of evaporation of Mg is high. Here, an oxide‐stripping device is used to provide an aluminum alloy droplet with minimal oxide on the surface when the droplet makes initial contact with the substrate. Results are reported for contact angle (θ) versus time for Al–2.1, 3.9, 9.1, and 14.2 wt% Mg alloys with sintered silicon carbide substrates. The samples were quenched from the test temperature. Magnesium plays a key role in the adhesion, or otherwise, of the droplet to the substrate. Magnesium is probably migrating to the surface of the droplet and evaporating or forming a “crusty” layer on the surface over time. When viewed from above, “halo” regions, initially showing interference colors, develop on the substrate around the base of the droplets. These are probably associated with Mg (and Al) diffusing from the droplet across the surface of the substrate.
Charge–Discharge Properties of an Antiferroelectric Ceramics Capacitor Under Different Electric Fields
Authors: Zhang Hongling , Chen Xuefeng , Cao Fei , Wang Genshui , Dong Xianlin , Hu Zhiying , Du Tao
Published: November 2010

Charge–discharge properties of an La‐modified Pb(Zr,Sn,Ti)O3 (PLZST) antiferroelectric (AFE) ceramics capacitor were investigated by directly measuring its hysteresis loops and pulse discharge current–time curves under different electric fields. Large increments in polarization and discharge current were observed when the electric field increases from 3 to 3.5 kV/mm. Under 4 kV/mm, the first current peak of this AFE ceramics capacitor (static capacitance around 4.4 nF) can surpass 1.1 kA, and more than 80% electric charge stored can be released in <65 ns. Moreover, this AFE ceramics capacitor can withstand 2000 times of charge–discharge cycling with no significant degradation of properties under 3.5 kV/mm.
Within‐taxon niche structure: niche conservatism, divergence and predicted effects of climate change
Authors: Pearman Peter B. , D'Amen Manuela , Graham Catherine H. , Thuiller Wilfried , Zimmermann Niklaus E.
Published: November 2010

Several studies have observed that taxa below the level of species can vary in the degree to which they differ from one another in the environmental space they occupy. These patterns of within‐species niche variation raise the question of whether these differences should be considered when developing models for predicting the potential effects of climate change on species distributions. We address this question with two divergent datasets, one on sister species and subspecies from the European herpetofauna, the other on subspecies of breeding birds in North America. Atlas and observation data come from the Atlas of Amphibians and Reptiles in Europe and the North American Breeding Bird Survey, respectively. We develop boosted regression tree models of climate–distribution relationships and project the predicted geographic range of each taxon using interpolated weather station data and modeled climate for the year 2080. We find differences between models that distinguish the contributions of subtaxa and those that do not, in terms of prediction of both current and future distributions. In comparison to models that ignore sub‐taxon structure, models that incorporate this structure generally predict larger areas of suitable conditions, consistently perform better, if only marginally, as measured by cross‐validated AUC, and can reveal divergent potential effects of climate change on subtaxa. Differences in niche occupancy and predicted distribution appear between closely related taxa regardless of their phylogenetic distinctness. For these reasons, information on subtaxon membership and phylogeographic structure should be included in modeling exercises when available, in order to identify both the contribution of these units to the niche occupancy of species and the potentially distinct responses of subtaxa to climate change.
Orthodontic measurements on digital study models compared with plaster models: a systematic review
Authors: Fleming PS , Marinho V , Johal A
Published: November 2010

To cite this article:
 Fleming PS, Marinho V, Johal A: Orthodontic measurements on digital study models compared with plaster models: a systematic review Orthod Craniofac Res 2011;14:1–16

Authors –  Fleming PS, Marinho V, Johal A

The aim of this study is to evaluate the validity of the use of digital models to assess tooth size, arch length, irregularity index, arch width and crowding versus measurements generated on hand‐held plaster models with digital callipers in patients with and without malocclusion. Studies comparing linear and angular measurements obtained on digital and standard plaster models were identified by searching multiple databases including MEDLINE, LILACS, BBO, ClinicalTrials.gov, the National Research Register and Pro‐Quest Dissertation Abstracts and Thesis database, without restrictions relating to publication status or language of publication. Two authors were involved in study selection, quality assessment and the extraction of data. Items from the Quality Assessment of Studies of Diagnostic Accuracy included in Systematic Reviews checklist were used to assess the methodological quality of included studies. No meta‐analysis was conducted. Comparisons between measurements of digital and plaster models made directly within studies were reported, and the difference between the (repeated) measurement means for digital and plaster models were considered as estimates. Seventeen relevant studies were included. Where reported, overall, the absolute mean differences between direct and indirect measurements on plaster and digital models were minor and clinically insignificant. Orthodontic measurements with digital models were comparable to those derived from plaster models. The use of digital models as an alternative to conventional measurement on plaster models may be recommended, although the evidence identified in this review is of variable quality.
Chondrodermatitis nodularis chronica helicis – a conservative therapeutic approach by decompression
Authors: Kuen‐Spiegl Marlene , Ratzinger Gudrun , Sepp Norbert , Fritsch Peter
Published: November 2010

Background: Chondrodermatitis nodularis chronica helicis is a rather common condition which substantially affects quality of life causing pain and sleeping disturbances. Surgical treatment is connected with a tendency to recurrence. Mechanical pressure is probably the main etiological factor.

Patients and Methods: A prospective study was performed with 18 patients that were offered a non‐surgical treatment using a self‐made bandage of foam plastic which they applied during the night. Of these, 12 performed the treatment including follow‐up; 6 patients initially also consented, but they did not return after the initial visit.

Results: 11 patients reported substantial reduction of pain within the first month; after an average of 1.75 months they were free of pain. All 8 patients with initial sleeping problems caused by pain reported undisturbed sleep after only one month. In 11 patients the lesions receded satisfactorily, in 9 patients completely, in 2 patients leaving small asymptomatic residual lesions. Recurrences appeared in 3 patients with 2 of them having been surgically pretreated at the same location.

Conclusions: We recommend conservative treatment using protective padding as first line treatment for chondrodermatitis nodularis chronica helicis. The successful outcome achieved only by relief of pressure supports pressure as the main etiological factor in the development of the disease.
P25α / TPPP expression increases plasma membrane presentation of the dopamine transporter and enhances cellular sensitivity to dopamine toxicity
Authors: Fjorback Anja W. , Sundbye Sabrina , Dächsel Justus C. , Sinning Steffen , Wiborg Ove , Jensen Poul H.
Published: November 2010

Parkinson’s disease is characterized by preferential degeneration of the dopamine‐producing neurons of the brain stem substantia nigra. Imbalances between mechanisms governing dopamine transport across the plasma membrane and cellular storage vesicles increase the level of toxic pro‐oxidative cytosolic dopamine. The microtubule‐stabilizing protein p25α accumulates in dopaminergic neurons in Parkinson’s disease. We hypothesized that p25α modulates the subcellular localization of the dopamine transporter via effects on sorting vesicles, and thereby indirectly affects its cellular activity. Here we show that co‐expression of the dopamine transporter with p25α in HEK‐293‐MSR cells increases dopamine uptake via increased plasma membrane presentation of the transporter. No direct interaction between p25α and the dopamine transporter was demonstrated, but they co‐fractionated during subcellular fractionation of brain tissue from striatum, and direct binding of p25α peptides to brain vesicles was demonstrated. Truncations of the p25α peptide revealed that the requirement for stimulating dopamine uptake is located in the central core and were similar to those required for vesicle binding. Co‐expression of p25α and the dopamine transporter in HEK‐293‐MSR cells sensitized them to the toxicity of extracellular dopamine. Neuronal expression of p25α thus holds the potential to sensitize the cells toward dopamine and toxins carried by the dopamine transporter.

Structured digital abstract

 MINT‐8055798: DAT (uniprotkb:Q01959) and p25 alpha (uniprotkb:O94811) colocalize (MI:0403) by fluorescence microscopy (MI:0416)

 MINT‐8054201: p25 alpha (uniprotkb:B1Q0K1), bip (refseq:GI:194033595), Synaptophysin (uniprotkb:Q62277), Alpha‐synuclein (uniprotkb:Q3I5G7) and DAT (uniprotkb:C6KE31) colocalize (MI:0403) by cosedimentation in solution (MI:0028)

 MINT‐8055878: Synaptophysin (uniprotkb:Q62277), bip (refseq:GI:194033595) and p25‐alpha (uniprotkb:O94811) colocalize (MI:0403) by cosedimentation through density gradient (MI:0029)
Doxycycline Dose‐dependently Inhibits MMP‐2‐Mediated Vascular Changes in 2K1C Hypertension
Authors: Guimaraes Danielle A. , Rizzi Elen , Ceron Carla S. , Oliveira Alisson M. , Oliveira Diogo M. , Castro Michele M. , Tirapelli Carlos R. , Gerlach Raquel F. , Tanus‐Santos Jose E.
Published: November 2010

Abstract:  Hypertension induces vascular alterations that are associated with up‐regulation of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). While these alterations may be blunted by doxycycline, a non‐selective MMPs inhibitor, no previous study has examined the effects of different doses of doxycycline on these alterations. This is important because doxycycline has been used at sub‐antimicrobial doses, and the use of lower doses may prevent the emergence of antibiotic‐resistant microorganisms. We studied the effects of doxycycline at 3, 10 and 30 mg/kg per day on the vascular alterations found in the rat two kidney‐one clip (2K1C) hypertension (n = 20 rats/group). Systolic blood pressure (SBP) was monitored during 4 weeks of treatment. We assessed endothelium‐dependent and independent relaxations. Quantitative morphometry of structural changes in the aortic wall was studied, and aortic MMP‐2 levels/proteolytic activity were determined by gelatin and in situ zymography, respectively. All treatments attenuated the increases in SBP in hypertensive rats (195.4 ± 3.9 versus 177.2 ± 6.2, 176.3 ± 4.5, and 173 ± 5.1 mmHg in 2K1C hypertensive rats treated with vehicle, or doxycycline at 3, 10, 30 mg/kg per day, respectively (all p < 0.01). However, only the highest dose prevented 2K1C‐induced reduction in endothelium‐dependent vasorelaxation (p < 0.05), vascular hypertrophy and increases in MMP‐2 levels (all p < 0.05). In conclusion, our results suggest that relatively lower doses of doxycycline do not attenuate the vascular alterations found in the 2K1C hypertension model, and only the highest dose of doxycycline affects MMPs and vascular structure. Our results support the idea that the effects of doxycycline on MMP‐2 and vascular structure are pressure independent.
Light Induced and Circadian Effects on Retinal Photoreceptor Cell Crystallins
Authors: Organisciak Daniel , Darrow Ruth , Barsalou Linda , Rapp Christine , McDonald Benjamin , Wong Paul
Published: November 2010

Crystallins in the retina may serve a chaperone‐like protective function. In this study we measured mRNA levels for alpha‐, beta‐ and gamma‐crystallins in rat retinas following treatment with potentially damaging levels of light. We also determined crystallin protein patterns in photoreceptor cell rod outer segments (ROSs) isolated from rats exposed to intense light. Weanling albino rats were maintained in a dim cyclic light environment or in darkness for 40 days. At P60 animals were treated with intense visible light, for as long as 8 h, beginning at various times of the day or night. Retinas were excised immediately after light treatment and used for quantitative RT‐PCR, or to prepare ROSs for western analysis. Some eyes were frozen in OCT for crystallin immunohistochemistry. Intense light exposure led to increases in mRNA expression for all retinal crystallins and to changes in ROS crystallin immunoreactivity. These light‐induced changes were found to depend on the time of day that exposure started, duration of light treatment and previous light rearing history. We suggest that crystallin synthesis in retina exhibits a dependence on both light stress and circadian rhythm and that within photoreceptor cells crystallins appear to migrate in a light‐independent, circadian fashion.
District nurse interaction in engaging with end‐stage chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients: a mixed methods study
Authors: Disler Rebecca , Jones Anne
Published: November 2010

disler r & jones a (2010)
 Journal of Nursing and Healthcare of Chronic Illness2, 302–312 District nurse interaction in engaging with end‐stage chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients: a mixed methods study

Aims and objectives.  To explore the role of district nurses in caring for people with end‐stage chronic obstructive pulmonary disease living in metropolitan London.

Background.  People with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease experience high symptom burden in their final stages of life. While the majority of end‐stage chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients’ symptoms are markedly similar to any end‐stage chronic illness, these patients have limited access to supportive community services, such as district nursing. District nurses have an established role in end‐of‐life care in the community, however, this care has mainly focused on patients with terminal malignancy. It is unclear why district nurses’ established skills in end‐of‐life care not are not applied to this high needs patient group.

Methods.  A mixed‐method design incorporating face‐to‐face interviews and mailed survey was chosen to gain a coherent understanding of the perceptions of district nurses in metropolitan London. Forty‐three district nurses participated in this mixed method study in 2008.

Conclusions.  District nurses were found to lack confidence in their own knowledge about, and in their ability to interact with end‐stage chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients. While district nurses did interact with these patients, this was limited to tasks unrelated to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Referrers appeared to misunderstand the district nurse role in end‐stage care and therefore its application to the care of end‐stage chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients.

Relevance to clinical practice.  District nurses need to closely engage with people with end‐stage chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. In addition, referrers must alter their discourse to engage these high‐risk patients with health services early in their disease trajectory. Infrastructural change is furthermore required to assist district nurses to provide patient‐focused care in the community and implement the holistic nursing roles outlined in the literature.
Advance directives and life‐sustaining treatment: informed attitudes of Hong Kong Chinese elders with chronic disease
Authors: Mok Esther , Ting Fion H , Lau Ka‐po
Published: November 2010

mok e, ting fh & lau k‐p (2010)
 Journal of Nursing and Healthcare of Chronic Illness2, 313–319 Advance directives and life‐sustaining treatment: informed attitudes of Hong Kong Chinese elders with chronic disease

Aim.  The aim of this study was to examine attitudes towards advance directives and life‐sustaining treatment of Chinese older persons with chronic disease in Hong Kong.

Background.  The concept of advance directives and related issues are fairly new to people in Hong Kong but they are open to talk about concerns at the end of life rather than treating death as a taboo. Older persons with chronic disease are a group to which end‐of‐life decision making is particularly relevant. Studies on attitudes of Chinese older persons with chronic disease towards advance directives and life‐sustaining treatment will be useful for culturally sensitive practice.

Method.  A cross sectional survey was carried out in 2009 in the in‐patient wards of a hospital in Hong Kong. Advance directives and related concepts were explained to participants before they were interviewed to ensure they had sufficient background information to give informed attitudes. Quantitative data regarding their attitudes towards the use of advance directives and limited use of life‐sustaining treatment were collected.

Conclusions.  Two hundred and nineteen participants completed the survey. Being informed of the concept of advance directives and related issues, in general they were able to take side regarding their attitudes regarding advance directives and life‐sustaining treatment. They also had a general positive attitude towards the use of advance directives and limited use of life‐sustaining treatment for a good death. To them, family was an indispensable part of end‐of‐life decision making.

Relevance to clinical practice.  While concepts such as advance care planning, advance directives and life‐sustaining treatment are fairly new to people in Hong Kong, clinicians should make sure patients are fully informed before they are required to make any life‐and‐death decision. Family members should also be involved in the process of discussion and decision‐making.
Flysch Trace Fossils from the Hercynian and Indosinian Orogenic Belts of Northwestern China and Their Palaeoenvironmental Significance
Authors: Yiming Gong
Published: November 2010

Abstract Twenty‐three ichnotaxa have been found in the Silurian and Carboniferous turbidites of the Tianshan orogenic belt and the Triassic turbidites of the East Kunlun‐West Qinling orogenic belt of northwestern China. They are Acanthorhaphe isp., ?Arthrophycus isp., Aulichnites parkerensis, Chondrites isp., C. intricatus, C. targionii, Cochlichnus anguineus, coprolite, Dendrotichnium haentzscheli, Helminthopsis isp., Helminthopsis abeli, H. hieroglyphica, H. cf. irregularis, Imbrichnus isp., Kunlunichnus qinghaiensis, Laevicyclus rotaeformis, Lophoctenium tianshanensis, Megagrapton isp., Micatuba verso?, Muensteria isp., Neonereites, Palaeophycus, and Zoophycos caudagalli, two of which, namely, Kunlunichnus qinghaiensis and Lophoctenium tianshanensis, are new ichnospecies. The described trace fossils can be grouped into five ichno‐assemblages: the Aulichnites‐Imbrichnus ichno‐assemblage representing turbidity current deposits of a restricted anoxic deep‐sea basin, the Lophoctenium ichno‐assemblage showing the deep‐sea or ocean environments relevant to a plate subduction, the Zoophycos‐Helminthopsis ichnoassemblage representing the upper‐middle turbidity fan deposits of a pelagic and hemipelagic environment, the Megagrapton‐Chondrites ichno‐assemblage representing the middle‐lower turbidity fan deposits of an oceanic archipelago and the Kunlunichnus ichno‐assemblage indicating bathyal turbidity current deposits.
Experimental Study of Partial Melting of Mantle Peridotite—A Discussion about the Genesis of Silica‐rich Fluids (Melts)
Authors: Jianping LI , JACQUES Kornprobst
Published: November 2010

Abstract Experiments on partial melting of mantle lherzolite have been realized at 0.6 and 1.0 GPa and the chemical compositional variations of melts during different melting stages have been first discussed. The results show that the trends of variations in SiO2, CaO, Al2O3, Na2O and TiO2 are different at different melting stages. The melts produced at lower pressure are richer in SiO2 than those at higher pressure. The mantle‐derived silica‐rich fluids (silicate melts) are polygenetic, but the basic and intermediate‐acid silicate melts in mantle peridotite xenoliths from the same host rocks, which have equivalent contents of volatile and alkali components and different contents of other components, should result from in‐situ (low‐degree) partial melting of mantle peridotite under different conditions (e.g. at different depths, with introduction of C‐O‐H fluids or in the presence of metasomatic minerals). The intermediate‐acid melts may be the result of partial melting (at lower pressure) Opx + Sp + K‐Na‐rich fluid ± (Amphi) ± (Phlog) = Ol + melt. But the intermediate‐acid magmas cannot be produced from the partial melting of normal mantle peridotite unless the crustal materials are introduced to some extent.
Isotopic Geochronology of the Xianghongdian Alkaline Complex, Northern Margin of the Dabie Mountains, China
Authors: Zhuliang YANG , Weizhou SHEN , Jialin SHEN , Kuiyuan TAO , Fanggui XIE
Published: November 2010

Abstract To the north of the Qinling‐Dabie orogen there exists a Mesozoic (K1) granite‐syenite belt called the Beihuaiyang granite‐syenite belt, in which the Xianghongdian alkaline complex outcrops in the Devonian Foziling schist and also intruded into the slightly earlier volcanic rocks. This alkaline complex is composed of syenite, alkaline syenite and nepheline syenite, but the nepheline syenite occurs inside the alkaline syenite in the pod‐like, irregular, lenticular or layered shape. Researches on the petrogenesis of the alkaline complex and the relationship between the alkaline syenite and the nepheline syenite must rely on precise isotopic ages. Previous researches have reported isotopic dating results merely by the 40Ar/39Ar method on hornblende and biotite separated from the alkaline syenite and nepheline syenite. In view of this, the authors have made fairly detailed isotopic geochronological studies of the alkaline syenite and nepheline syenite by using Rb‐Sr isochron for the whole rock and minerals, U‐Pb for single zircon separate and the 40Ar/39Ar method for hornblende and potash feldspar. The results of this research are completely different from those of previous researches and show that the nepheline syenite was formed far earlier than the alkaline syenite.