bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sporadic Hemangioblastoma of the Kidney: a rare renal tumor
Authors: Liu Yang , Qiu Xue-shan , Wang En-Hua
Published: May 2012

Hemangioblastoma is a benign and morphologically distinctive tumor that can occur sporadically or in association with von Hippel-Lindau disease in approximately 25% of the cases, and which involves the central nervous system in the majority of the cases. Rare occurrences of hemangioblastoma in peripheral nerves and extraneural tissues have been reported. This report describes one case of sporadic renal hemangioblastoma happened in a 16-year-old Chinese female patient, presenting with hematuria, and low back pain. Histologically, the tumors were circumscribed, and composed of sheets of large polygonal cells traversed by arborizing thin-walled blood vessels. The diagnosis of hemangioblastoma was confirmed by negative immunostaining for cytokeratin, and positive staining for α-inhibin, S100 and neuron-specific enolase (NSE). This benign neoplasm which can be mistaken for various malignancies such as renal cell carcinoma, epithelioid hemangiopericytoma and epithelioid angiomyolipoma, deserves wider recognition for its occurrence as a primary renal tumor.

Virtual slides

The virtual slide(s) for this article can be found here: http://www.diagnosticpathology.diagnomx.eu/vs/5445834246942699
Spatiotemporal network motif reveals the biological traits of developmental gene regulatory networks in Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Kim Man-Sun , Kim Jeong-Rae , Kim Dongsan , Lander Arthur D , Cho Kwang-Hyun
Published: May 2012

Background

Network motifs provided a “conceptual tool” for understanding the functional principles of biological networks, but such motifs have primarily been used to consider static network structures. Static networks, however, cannot be used to reveal time- and region-specific traits of biological systems. To overcome this limitation, we proposed the concept of a “spatiotemporal network motif,” a spatiotemporal sequence of network motifs of sub-networks which are active only at specific time points and body parts.

Results

On the basis of this concept, we analyzed the developmental gene regulatory network of the Drosophila melanogaster embryo. We identified spatiotemporal network motifs and investigated their distribution pattern in time and space. As a result, we found how key developmental processes are temporally and spatially regulated by the gene network. In particular, we found that nested feedback loops appeared frequently throughout the entire developmental process. From mathematical simulations, we found that mutual inhibition in the nested feedback loops contributes to the formation of spatial expression patterns.

Conclusions

Taken together, the proposed concept and the simulations can be used to unravel the design principle of developmental gene regulatory networks.
Posttraumatic stress symptoms in children diagnosed with type 1 diabetes
Authors: Şişmanlar Şahika G , Demirbaş-Çakir Emine , Karakaya Işık , Çizmecioğlu Filiz , Yavuz Cavit I , Hatun Şükrü , Ağaoğlu Belma
Published: May 2012

Background

Studies consistently found remarkable rates of posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) in children with chronic diseases. But, only one study had searched PTSS in children with diabetes, until now. So, the present study aimed to examine incidence rate and predictors of PTSS in children with type 1 diabetes.

Method

PTSS were evaluated by Child Posttraumatic Stress Reaction Index in fifty four children with diabetes (aged between 8–18 years). This assessment was based on hypoglycaemia as the potential traumatic event. Children were also introduced a brief questionnaire about demographic and disease related information. Some other information was obtained from families, medical stuff and records. Among 54 children, forty two had complete information. Hence, to evaluate possible predictive factors related with PTSS, multiple regression analysis was conducted for 42 children.

Results

18.5% of children were reported PTSS at severe or very severe level, and 51.9% were reported PTSS at moderate level or above. Multiple regression analyses were shown that child PTSS were not significantly related with possible predictive factors other than number of hypoglycaemic attacks for the last month.

Conclusion

The study results support that posttraumatic stress symptoms are not rarely seen in paediatric patients with diabetes, and even if not severe, hypoglycaemic attacks may be perceived as traumatic by the children with diabetes. But, because of some limitations, the results should be carefully interpreted.
Adult attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder and bipolar disorder
Authors: Gleason Andrew , Castle David
Published: May 2012

Increasing attention is being paid to the concept of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adults, in concord with evidence that suggests a proportion of children with ADHD continue to manifest symptoms into adulthood. Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder has some symptoms in common with hypomania, and can co-occur with bipolar disorder. The diagnosis and management of ADHD in adults with bipolar disorder can be complicated, owing to challenges resulting from symptom overlap, questions of diagnostic validity and a paucity of empirical evidence to guide treatment. This article addresses comorbid ADHD and bipolar disorder, and provides practical suggestions for diagnosis and management.
Lasting powers of attorney: implications for clinicians
Authors: Curtice Martin , Katuwawela Isurima , McCollum Richard
Published: May 2012

Issues relating to capacity are increasingly topical and relevant, particularly following the implementation of the Mental Capacity Act 2005. Powers of attorney are one such issue that requires the assessment of capacity for their execution. This article focuses on lasting powers of attorney (LPAs), which were introduced under the Mental Capacity Act in 2007. We describe how LPAs evolved and how they have been used since the inception of the Act. We review salient case law. In doing so, we elucidate pertinent issues for clinicians, particularly in the case of health and welfare LPAs: for the first time in England and Wales, the law allows donors to nominate an attorney to make decisions about their personal health and welfare once they become incapacitated.
An evidence-based approach to routine outcome assessment
Authors: Slade Mike
Published: May 2012

Routine use of Health of the Nation Outcome Scales (HoNOS) has not produced the anticipated benefits for people using mental health services. Four HoNOS-specific reasons for this are: low relevance to clinical decision-making; not reflecting service user priorities; being staff-rated; and having a focus on deficits. More generally, the imposition of a centrally chosen measure on the mental health system leads to a clash of cultures, since frontline workers do not need a standardised measure to treat individuals. A better approach might be to use research from the emerging academic discipline of implementation science to inform the routine use of a standardised measure that is chosen by the people who will use it and hence is more concordant with existing clinical processes. This is illustrated using a case study of successful implementation of the Camberwell Assessment of Need (CAN) in community mental health services across Ontario, Canada.
Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy: a promising new approach to
preventing depressive relapse
Authors: Williams J. Mark G. , Kuyken Willem
Published: May 2012

Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) was developed as a psychological
approach for people at risk for depressive relapse who wish to learn how to
stay well in the long-term. In this article we set out the rationale for
MBCT, outline the treatment approach, overview the efficacy research to date
and look to future challenges.
Healthy brain ageing: the new concept of motivational reserve
Authors: Maercker Andreas , Forstmeier Simon
Published: May 2012

Various research approaches try to solve the puzzles related to dementia or healthy brain ageing. Neurogenetic, neuroimaging and neuropharmacological research are the most visible of these. Psychological research in dementia has been instrumental in improving familial or institutional care. However, it has not been regarded as basic research. Recent psychological research into the mechanisms of co-forming or shaping the clinical presentation of dementias can be counted as truly basic research. The ‘cognitive or brain reserve’ concept has been fruitful in implementing psychological knowledge on plasticity factors in dementia. The new concept of ‘motivational reserve capacity’ extends these psychological concepts. In particular, it provides a basis for integrating various findings on how lifestyle factors effectively shape clinical dementia presentations – or lead to healthy brain ageing.
Autologous and Allogeneic Stem-Cell Transplantation for Transformed Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (Richter's Syndrome): A Retrospective Analysis From the Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia Subcommittee of the Chronic Leukemia Working Party and Lymphoma Working Party of the European Group for Blood and Marrow Transplantation
Authors: Cwynarski Kate , van Biezen Anja , de Wreede Liesbeth , Stilgenbauer Stephan , Bunjes Donald , Metzner Bernd , Koza Vladimir , Mohty Mohamad , Remes Kari , Russell Nigel , Nagler Arnon , Scholten Marijke , de Witte Theo , Sureda Anna , Dreger Peter
Published: May 2012

Purpose

Patients with Richter's syndrome (RS) have a poor prognosis with conventional chemotherapy. The aim of this study was to evaluate the outcome after autologous stem-cell transplantation (autoSCT) or allogeneic stem-cell transplantation (alloSCT) in RS.

Patients and Methods

A survey was sent to all European Group for Blood and Marrow Transplantation centers assessing transplantations performed for RS. Eligibility criteria included a diagnosis of RS or secondary lymphoma before SCT, age ≥ 18 years, and SCT performed from 1997 to 2007. Data were analyzed by descriptive statistics and methods from survival analysis.

Results

Fifty-nine patients were registered. Thirty-four patients had received autoSCT, mostly because of chemotherapy-sensitive disease, and 25 had received alloSCT, with 36% being refractory to chemotherapy at SCT. In 18 allograft recipients (72%), reduced-intensity conditioning (RIC) was used. Three-year estimates of the probabilities of overall survival and relapse-free survival (RFS) and the cumulative incidences of relapse and nonrelapse mortality were 36%, 27%, 47%, and 26% for alloSCT and 59%, 45%, 43%, and 12% for autoSCT, respectively. Taking into account the limitations set by the low number of events and age younger than 60 years, chemotherapy-sensitive disease and RIC were found to be associated with superior RFS after alloSCT in multivariate analysis. Factors with a significant impact on autoSCT could not be identified.

Conclusion

Patients with RS who are sensitive to induction chemotherapy appear to benefit from consolidation with transplantation strategies, and prolonged survival was observed in a proportion of patients.
Treatment Outcomes in Black and White Children With Cancer: Results From the SEER Database and St Jude Children's Research Hospital, 1992 Through 2007
Authors: Pui Ching-Hon , Pei Deqing , Pappo Alberto S. , Howard Scott C. , Cheng Cheng , Sandlund John T. , Furman Wayne L. , Ribeiro Raul C. , Spunt Sheri L. , Rubnitz Jeffrey E. , Jeha Sima , Hudson Melissa M. , Kun Larry E. , Merchant Thomas E. , Kocak Mehmet , Broniscer Alberto , Metzger Monika L. , Downing James R. , Leung Wing , Evans William E. , Gajjar Amar
Published: May 2012

Purpose

Treatment outcome for black patients with cancer has been significantly worse than for their white counterparts. We determined whether recent improved treatment had narrowed the gap in outcome between black and white pediatric patients.

Patients and Methods

In a parallel comparison, we analyzed survival by disease category between black and white patients with childhood cancer registered in one of the 17 cancer registries of the National Cancer Institute's Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) program or treated at St Jude Children's Research Hospital, which provides comprehensive treatment to all patients regardless of their ability to pay, from 1992 to 2000 and from 2001 to 2007.

Results

Analysis of the SEER data indicated that in both study periods, black patients had significantly poorer rates of survival than did white patients, with the exception of a few types of cancer. Despite significantly improved treatment outcomes for patients who were treated from 2001 to 2007, the racial difference in survival has actually widened for acute myeloid leukemia and neuroblastoma. By contrast, in the cohorts treated at St Jude Children's Research Hospital, there were no significant differences in survival between black and white patients in either study period, regardless of the cancer type. Importantly, the outcome of treatment for acute lymphoblastic leukemia, acute myeloid leukemia, and retinoblastoma has improved in parallel for both races during the most recent study period.

Conclusion

With equal access to comprehensive treatment, black and white children with cancer can achieve the same high cure rates.
Are Women with Thicker Cortices in the Femoral Shaft at Higher Risk of Subtrochanteric/Diaphyseal Fractures? The Study of Osteoporotic Fractures
Authors: Napoli Nicola , Jin Jenny , Peters Katherine , Wustrack Rosanna , Burch Shane , Chau Aldric , Cauley Jane , Ensrud Kristine , Kelly Michael , Black Dennis M.
Published: May 2012

Context:

Femoral shaft cortical thickening has been mentioned in reports of atypical subtrochanteric and diaphyseal (S/D) femur fractures, but it is unclear whether thickening precedes fracture or results from a preceding stress fracture and what role bisphosphonates might play in cortical thickening.

Objective:

Our objective was to examine the relationship of cortical thickness to S/D fracture risk as well as establish normal reference values for femoral cortical thickness in a large population-based cohort of older women.

Design:

Using pelvic radiographs obtained in 1986–1988, we measured femoral shaft cortical thickness 3 cm below the lesser trochanter in women in the Study of Osteoporotic Fractures. We measured this in a random sample and in those with S/D fractures and femoral neck and intertrochanteric fractures. Low-energy S/D fractures were identified from review of radiographic reports obtained between 1986 and 2010. Radiographs to evaluate atypia were not available. Analysis used case-cohort, proportional hazards models.

Outcomes:

Cortical thickness as a risk factor for low-energy S/D femur fractures as well as femoral neck and intertrochanteric fractures in the Study of Osteoporotic Fractures, adjusting for age and bone mineral density in proportional hazards models.

Results:

After age adjustment, women with thinner medial cortices were at a higher risk of S/D femur fracture, with a relative hazard of 3.94 (95% confidence interval = 1.23–12.6) in the lowest vs. highest quartile. Similar hazard ratios were seen for femoral neck and intertrochanteric fractures. Medial or total cortical thickness was more strongly related to fracture risk than lateral cortical thickness.

Conclusions:

In primarily bisphosphonate-naive women, we found no evidence that thick femoral cortices placed women at higher risk for low-energy S/D femur fractures; in fact, the opposite was true. Women with thin cortices were also at a higher risk for femoral neck and intertrochanteric fractures. Whether cortical thickness among bisphosphonate users plays a role in atypical S/D fractures remains to be determined.
The varying faces of gall bladder carcinoma: pictorial essay
Authors: Lim Kian Soon , Peters Cynthia C , Kow Alfred , Tan Cher Heng
Published: May 2012

The objective of this review is to highlight the pertinent imaging features and potential pitfalls in the diagnosis and staging of gall bladder carcinoma. This condition is notoriously non-specific on imaging on many occasions, particularly in its early stages; gall bladder carcinoma shows numerous features that overlap with a large number of benign conditions, leading to delayed diagnosis and incurable disease. Radiologists should be familiar with its typical and atypical imaging features.
Proliferation and differentiation of osteoblasts from the mandible of osteoporotic rats
Authors: Yu Shu-Juan , Liu Hong-Chen , E Ling-Ling , Wang Dong-Sheng , Zhu Guo-Xiong
Published: May 2012

The objective of this study was to identify the differences between osteoblasts derived from normal adult rat mandibles and osteoporotic adult rats. An osteoporotic animal model was established by performing a bilateral ovariectomy (ovx group). The proliferation and differentiation abilities of osteoblasts were determined by MTT (3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5-diphenyl-2 H-tetrazolium bromide), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and osteocalcin release (OC) assays. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was performed to assess differences in the ultrastructure. Proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and uncoupling protein 2 (UCP2) protein concentrations were analyzed by Western blot. In addition, UCP2 protein in osteoblasts was assessed by immunohistochemistry staining . ATP and reactive oxygen species (ROS) concentrations were analyzed separately with ATP and ROS quantification kits. At four and 12 weeks after the operation, osteoblasts of the ovx group showed earlier attachment, fewer dead cells and faster growth compared with cells in the sham group. TEM showed that osteoblasts of the ovx group had fewer folds, lysosomes, peroxisomes and less rough endoplasmic reticulum. The results of the MTT, ALP activity and OC assays were all higher in osteoblasts from the ovx group at four or 12 weeks postsurgery than osteoblasts from the sham group. PCNA protein concentrations in the ovx group increased significantly compared with those of the sham group at four or 12 weeks after the operation, but UCP2 concentrations decreased over the same time period. UCP2 immunohistochemical staining of osteoblasts showed that the protein was concentrated in the cytoplasm and that the osteoblasts from the sham group had higher expression than those from the ovx group. The ATP and ROS concentrations of the ovx groups were significantly higher than the sham groups at four or 12 weeks postsurgery. Therefore, we concluded that there are differences in cell ultrastructure, proliferation, differentiation, ATP and ROS concentrations, and PCNA and UCP2 protein expression levels in osteoblasts from the mandibles of rats of the ovx group compared with those from the sham group.
Synthesis of copolymers of ethylene and (meth)acrylates or styrene by an original dual radical/catalytic mechanism
Authors: Leblanc Alexandra , Broyer Jean-Pierre , Boisson Christophe , Spitz Roger , Monteil Vincent
Published: May 2012

Neutral NiII complexes, classically used for catalytic ethylene polymerization, can play an additional role as radical initiators of the homo- and copolymerizations of (meth)acrylates and styrene. Benefiting from this duality, the copolymerization of ethylene and various (meth)acrylates or styrene was successfully performed. Multiblock copolymers containing sequences of both ethylene and (meth)acrylates were prepared for the first time from an original dual radical/catalytic mechanism.
First total synthesis of the (±)-2-methoxy-6-heptadecynoic acid and related 2-methoxylated analogs as effective inhibitors of the Leishmania topoisomerase IB enzyme
Authors: Carballeira Néstor M. , Cartagena Michelle , Li Fengyu , Chen Zhongfang , Prada Christopher F. , Calvo-Alvarez Estefania , Reguera Rosa M. , Balaña-Fouce Rafael
Published: May 2012

The fatty acids (±)-2-methoxy-6Z-heptadecenoic acid, (±)-2-methoxy-6-hepta-decynoic acid, and (±)-2-methoxyheptadecanoic acid were synthesized and their inhibitory activity against the Leishmania DNA topoisomerase IB enzyme (LdTopIB) determined. Both 2-OMe-17:1 fatty acids were synthesized from 4-bromo-1-pentanol, the olefinic fatty acid in 10 steps and in 7 % overall yield, while the acetylenic fatty acid in 7 steps and in 14 % overall yield. The 2-OMe-17:0 acid was prepared in 6 steps and in 42 % yield from 1-hexa-decanol. The 2-OMe-17:1 acids inhibited LdTopIB, with the acetylenic acid displaying an EC50 = 16.6 ± 1.1 μM, but the 2-OMe-17:0 acid did not inhibit LdTopIB. The (±)-2-methoxy-6Z-heptadecenoic acid preferentially inhibited LdTopIB over the human TopIB enzyme. Unsaturation seems to be a prerequisite for effective inhibition, rationalized in terms of weak intermolecular interactions between the active site of LdTopIB and either the double or triple bonds of the fatty acids. Toxicity toward Leishmania donovani promastigotes was also investigated, resulting in the order acetylenic > olefinic > saturated with the (±)-2-methoxy-6-heptadecynoic acid displaying an EC50 = 74.0 ± 17.1 μM. Our results indicate that α-methoxylation decreases the toxicity of C17:1 fatty acids toward L. donovani promastigotes, but improves their selectivity index.
N-Heterocyclic carbene copper-catalyzed carboxylation of C-B and C-H bonds with carbon dioxide
Authors: Zhang Liang , Hou Zhaomin
Published: May 2012

N-Heterocyclic carbene (NHC) copper complexes serve as an excellent catalytic system for carboxylation of alkyl-, aryl-, and alkenylboron compounds and some aromatic heterocyclic C-H bonds with carbon dioxide (CO2), to afford various functional-group-containing carboxylic acids or their ester derivatives. Some key reaction intermediates have been isolated and structurally characterized, thus providing important insight into the mechanistic details of these catalytic reactions.
Aplasia Cutis Congenita
Authors: Tollefson Megha M.
Published: May 2012

Aplasia cutis congenita (ACC) is a rare disorder that is estimated to affect approximately three newborns in every 10,000 live births. It is usually detected at birth and most commonly affects the scalp as a solitary lesion. The type of lesion may be classified into one of nine groups. Membranous types and those with a “hair collar” are at highest risk to be associated with underlying neurodevelopmental abnormalities. In rare cases, associated abnormalities and syndromes may also be seen. Appropriate evaluation can be undertaken depending on clinical signs and symptoms. Treatment is often conservative, but more aggressive treatment may be indicated for some larger scalp lesions.
Improving the sludge disintegration efficiency of sonication by combining with alkalization and thermal pre-treatment methods
Authors: Şahinkaya S. , Sevimli M. F. , Aygün A.
Published: May 2012

One of the most serious problems encountered in biological wastewater treatment processes is the production of waste activated sludge (WAS). Sonication, which is an energy-intensive process, is the most powerful sludge pre-treatment method. Due to lack of information about the combined pre-treatment methods of sonication, the combined pre-treatment methods were investigated and it was aimed to improve the disintegration efficiency of sonication by combining sonication with alkalization and thermal pre-treatment methods in this study. The process performances were evaluated based on the quantities of increases in soluble chemical oxygen demand (COD), protein and carbohydrate. The releases of soluble COD, carbohydrate and protein by the combined methods were higher than those by sonication, alkalization and thermal pre-treatment alone. Degrees of sludge disintegration in various options of sonication were in the following descending order: sono-alkalization > sono-thermal pre-treatment > sonication. Therefore, it was determined that combining sonication with alkalization significantly improved the sludge disintegration and decreased the required energy to reach the same yield by sonication. In addition, effects on sludge settleability and dewaterability and kinetic mathematical modelling of pre-treatment performances of these methods were investigated. It was proven that the proposed model accurately predicted the efficiencies of ultrasonic pre-treatment methods.
An integrated urban drainage system model for assessing renovation scheme
Authors: Dong X. , Zeng S. , Chen J. , Zhao D.
Published: May 2012

Due to sustained economic growth in China over the last three decades, urbanization has been on a rapidly expanding track. In recent years, regional industrial relocations were also accelerated across the country from the east coast to the west inland. These changes have led to a large-scale redesign of urban infrastructures, including the drainage system. To help the reconstructed infrastructures towards a better sustainability, a tool is required for assessing the efficiency and environmental performance of different renovation schemes. This paper developed an integrated dynamic modeling tool, which consisted of three models for describing the sewer, the wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) and the receiving water body respectively. Three auxiliary modules were also incorporated to conceptualize the model, calibrate the simulations, and analyze the results. The developed integrated modeling tool was applied to a case study in Shenzhen City, which is one of the most dynamic cities and facing considerable challenges for environmental degradation. The renovation scheme proposed to improve the environmental performance of Shenzhen City's urban drainage system was modeled and evaluated. The simulation results supplied some suggestions for the further improvement of the renovation scheme.
Application of ionic liquids for the removal of heavy metals from wastewater and activated sludge
Authors: Fuerhacker Maria , Haile Tadele Measho , Kogelnig Daniel , Stojanovic Anja , Keppler Bernhard
Published: May 2012

This paper presents the results of adsorption studies on the removal of heavy metals (Cr, Cu, Cd, Ni, Pb and Zn) from standard solutions, real wastewater samples and activated sewage sludge using a new technique of liquid–liquid extraction using quaternary ammonium and phosphonium ionic liquids (ILs). Batch sorption experiments were conducted using the ILs [PR4][TS], [PR4][MTBA], [A336][TS] and [A336][MTBA]. Removal of these heavy metals from standard solutions were not effective, however removal of heavy metals from the industrial effluents/wastewater treatment plants were satisfactory, indicating that the removal depends mainly on the composition of the wastewater and cannot be predicted with standard solutions. Removal of heavy metals from activated sludge proved to be more successful than conventional methods such as incineration, acid extraction, thermal treatment, etc. For the heavy metals Cu, Ni and Zn, ≥90% removal was achieved.
Effects of Integrating Multimedia into the Third Grade Mathematics Curriculum to Improve Student Learning
Authors: Liu Yuliang
Published: May 2012

This project was designed to test Mayer's multimedia theory in an elementary school to improve students' mathematics learning for low-income children. The study designed and developed two multimedia mathematics experiments in 3rd grade: 9's multiplication experiment and geometric solids experiment. The two experimental lessons were implemented in two 3rd grade classes of low-income children in the United States in January and May 2010, respectively. A one-group pretest-posttest design was used to collect quantitative and qualitative data in both experiments. Both experiments found that the participating teacher and students scored very high respectively; the participating students were very attentive to multimedia mathematics instruction; and the participating students scored significantly higher in mathematics quizzes at posttest at the end of the implementation than at pretest prior to the implementation. The project has theoretical and practical implications for international kindergarten through high school education.
Applying Strategies of Self-Regulation and Self-Efficacy to the Design and Evaluation of Online Learning Programs
Authors: Yang Yong-Chil , Park Eunmi
Published: May 2012

This study is designed to address aspects of self-regulation and self-efficacy as they relate to critical issues in the design and evaluation of online learning programs. It begins with a discussion of the rapid growth of distance learning programs at all levels and across virtually all disciplines of educational programming. Much of this discussion is based upon the findings of research into the effects of embedded strategies on promoting the use of self-regulated learning strategies (SRLS) in an online learning environment [1]. And it discusses the ways in which the essential differences between face-to-face instruction and instruction through distance mechanisms relate to the readiness of individual learners to efficiently and effectively engage in learning, and key issues in instructional design.
Meanings of Smoking among Adolescents in Chiang Mai, Thailand
Authors: Page Randy M. , Suwanteerangkul Jiraporn , Ricks Rebecca , Kemeny Maria
Published: May 2012

The Meanings of Smoking Index-2 (MSI-2) was administered to 2516 Thai adolescents in an urban, suburban, rural, and vocational high school. Factor analysis identified six meanings of smoking factor domains: coping, social image, stimulation, weight, independence, and difficulty refusing smoking. Logistic regression analyses determined that the strongest positive association with smoking behavior and ever smoking was the coping domain, and coping was also positively associated with susceptibility to smoking. The individual meaning item which most differentiated current smokers from nonsmokers was “keeps from being bored” and the dimension of stimulation (gives more energy, helps to concentrate, helps to study, gives something to do) was positively associated with current smoking. Findings suggest that meanings of smoking is important because it can provide guidance to health educators and other health professionals in tailoring smoking prevention and cessation interventions by identifying and targeting meanings that are salient within specific adolescent populations.
Practice and Content of Sex Education among Adolescents in a Family Setting in Rural Southwest Nigeria
Authors: Asekun-Olarinmoye E. O. , Dairo M. D. , Abodurin O. L. , Asekun-Olarinmoye I. O.
Published: May 2012

A descriptive cross-sectional study to assess adolescents' view of the practice and content of sex education within the family setting in a rural Nigerian community and explore whether there is any association between parental communication on sex and adolescents' sexual debut and habits. Simple random sampling was utilized, while a semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect data from 350 respondents. Data analysis was by the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS version 11). Majority of the respondents (48.8%) were late adolescents, 291 (85.1%) had had sex education, most (45.7%) of whom were exposed between ages 10 and 14 years. The main content of parental sex education was HIV/AIDS prevention (51.9%), avoidance of pregnancy (40.9%), abstinence (38.1%), and basic information about reproduction and biology (35.4%). Poor attitude to parental communication on sex was associated with a higher likelihood of pre-marital sex ( p = 0.001). Curiosity was the most common major reason for sexual debut. This emphasizes the importance of early sex education within the family setting and its possible impact in delaying sexual initiation. Promotion of parent-child communication about sexual issues is vital in order to improve the reproductive health of the adolescents in this environment. Community-based health education intervention programs for parents are recommended.
The Application of the Diabetes Prevention Trial–Type 1 Risk Score for Identifying a Preclinical State of Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Sosenko Jay M. , Skyler Jay S. , Mahon Jeffrey , Krischer Jeffrey P. , Beam Craig A. , Boulware David C. , Greenbaum Carla J. , Rafkin Lisa E. , Cowie Catherine , Cuthbertson David , Palmer Jerry P. ,   the Type 1 Diabetes TrialNet and Diabetes Prevention Trial–Type 1 Study Groups
Published: May 2012

OBJECTIVE

We assessed the utility of the Diabetes Prevention Trial–Type 1 Risk Score (DPTRS) for identifying individuals who are highly likely to progress to type 1 diabetes (T1D) within 2 years.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

The DPTRS was previously developed from Diabetes Prevention Trial–Type 1 (DPT-1) data and was subsequently validated in the TrialNet Natural History Study (TNNHS). DPTRS components included C-peptide and glucose indexes from oral glucose tolerance testing, along with age and BMI. The cumulative incidence of T1D was determined after DPTRS thresholds were first exceeded and after the first occurrences of glucose abnormalities.

RESULTS

The 2-year risks after the 9.00 DPTRS threshold was exceeded were 0.88 and 0.77 in DPT-1 (n = 90) and the TNNHS (n = 69), respectively. In DPT-1, the 2-year risks were much lower after dysglycemia first occurred (0.37; n = 306) and after a 2-h glucose value between 190 and 199 mg/dL was first reached (0.64; n = 59). Among those who developed T1D in DPT-1, the 9.00 threshold was exceeded 0.81 ± 0.53 years prior to the conventional diagnosis. Postchallenge C-peptide levels were substantially higher (P = 0.001 for 30 min; P < 0.001 for other time points) when the 9.00 threshold was first exceeded compared with the levels at diagnosis.

CONCLUSIONS

A DPTRS threshold of 9.00 identifies individuals who are very highly likely to progress to the conventional diagnosis of T1D within 2 years and, thus, are essentially in a preclinical diabetic state. The 9.00 threshold is exceeded well before diagnosis, when stimulated C-peptide levels are substantially higher.
Reformation versus Council of Trent and Rules for Interpretation from 16th to 19th
Authors: Slivka Daniel
Published: May 2012

Reformation versus Council of Trent and Rules for Interpretation from 16th to 19th

Council of Trent confronts "sola Scriptura" the Holy Scripture and Tradition without explaining their mutual relation. At that time, the term Tradition was considered to refer to customs of the Church which dealt with the faith and practice of homily. The council emerged at the time of difficult social, agricultural, and political situation in Europe. Religious disputes were connected with the reformation which took place in Europe. Catholic reformation started even before Protestant one and Council of Trent and its findings were results of it.
The Theology of the Worship Service according to Martin Luther
Authors: Valčová Katarína
Published: May 2012

The Theology of the Worship Service according to Martin Luther

Luther's theology of the worship service was, first of all, developed on the basis of the relationship to the conflict between theolatry and idolatry. The basic presupposition of all of Luther's theology is the question: Who is your God? Luther's theology of the worship service rests first of all on the correct understanding of God and His actions and also on the faith as the integral part of humanity which is naturally connected to the true worship of God. The understanding of the mass as good deed flows, according to Luther, from the human attempts to cleanse themselves in front of God and the sacrifice of mass is one of many attempts to influence God by offering the good deeds. This leads to the understanding of the mass as idolatry tainted by legalism.
Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis in a Patient With Knee Pain
Authors: Hatfield Samantha J. , Baxter Richard E.
Published: May 2012

The patient was an 11-year-old female referred to a physical therapist because of a primary complaint of progressively worsening left anterior knee pain of 9 months' duration. Examination of the patient's left knee was unremarkable and did not reproduce the patient's primary complaint. However, range-of-motion assessment of the patient's left hip elicited pain in the left anterior/medial hip region and revealed decreased hip internal rotation and abduction. Due to concern about the possibility of a slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE), the patient was immediately referred to her physician, and subsequent radiographs revealed a left SCFE.

J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2012;42(5):482. doi:10.2519/jospt.2012.0408
Influence of Upper Extremity Assistance on Lower Extremity Force Application Symmetry in Individuals Post-Hip Fracture During the Sit-to-Stand Task
Authors: Kneiss Janet A. , Houck Jeff R. , Bukata Susan V. , Puzas J. Edward
Published: May 2012

Study Design

Controlled laboratory study using a cross-sectional design.

Objectives

To compare lower extremity force applications during a sit-to-stand (STS) task with and without upper extremity assistance in older individuals post-hip fracture to those of age-matched controls.

Background

A recent study documented the dependence on upper extremity assistance and the uninvolved lower limb during an STS task in individuals post-hip fracture. This study extends this work by examining the effect of upper extremity assistance on symmetry of lower extremity force applications.

Methods

Twenty-eight community-dwelling elderly subjects, 14 who had recovered from a hip fracture and 14 controls, participated in the study. All participants were independent ambulators. Four force plates were used to determine lower extremity force applications during an STS task with and without upper extremity assistance. The summed vertical ground reaction forces (vGRFs) of both limbs were used to determine STS phases (preparation/rising). The lower extremity force applications were assessed statistically using analysis of variance models.

Results

During the preparation phase, side-to-side symmetry of the rate of force development was significantly lower for the hip fracture group for both STS tasks (P<.001). During the rising phase, the vGRF impulse of the involved limb was significantly lower for the hip fracture group for both STS tasks (P = .045). The vGRF impulse for the uninvolved limb was significantly increased when participants with hip fracture did not use upper extremity assistance compared to elderly controls (P = .002). This resulted in a significantly lower vGRF symmetry for the hip fracture group during both STS tasks (P<.001).

Conclusion

Participants with hip fracture who were discharged from rehabilitative care demonstrated decreased side-to-side symmetry of lower extremity loading during an STS task, irrespective of whether upper extremity assistance was provided. These findings suggest that learned motor control strategies may influence movement patterns post-hip fracture. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2012;42(5):474–481. doi:10.2519/jospt.2012.3562
A Longitudinal Analysis of the Effects of One Year Abroad
Authors: Serrano Raquel , Tragant Elsa , Llanes Àngels
Published: May 2012

Abstract:

The purpose of this study is to analyze the progress of 14 Spanish-speaking learners of English during a period abroad from a longitudinal perspective. Oral and written data were collected three times during an academic year at a British university. These samples were analyzed in terms of fluency, syntactic complexity, lexical richness, and accuracy. The results of the statistical analyses indicate that, while a few months abroad might be sufficient for some gains in oral performance to occur, improvement in written production is slower and does not seem to take place until students have spent more than one semester abroad. In addition, it was observed that the type of interaction experienced abroad and some attitudinal features can partly explain language development in some areas.
Multiple Minorities or Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CLD) Plurilingual Learners? Re-envisioning Allophone Immigrant Children and Their Inclusion in French-Language Schools in Ontario
Authors: Prasad Gail
Published: May 2012

Abstract:

Four out of five immigrants to Canada speak a language other than English or French as a first language. Immigration is increasingly transforming francophone minority communities. Allophone children acquire minority status on multiple levels within French-language schools, where they can become both a linguistic minority and a cultural minority within an official francophone minority in Canada. This article examines how culturally and linguistically diverse (CLD) allophones have been constructed historically through official language and multiculturalism policies in Canada and how this political framing limits language rights and schooling for allophone immigrant children. By examining recent language policies, this article argues that the ways in which policy makers, educators, and researchers conceptualize CLD children shape their integration into Canada. This article draws upon a case study of teachers’ practices with allophone learners in one French-language school to highlight the potential for transformative third-space practices to support CLD children in French-language schools.
Isolation and Screening of Thermo stable Extracellular Alkaline Protease Producing Bacteria from Tannery Effluents
Authors: Habib S. M. A. , Fakhruddin A. N. M. , Begum S. , Ahmed M. M.
Published: May 2012

The aim of the current study was to isolate extracellular protease producing bacteria from tannery effluents. The isolation was performed by serial dilution and plating method. Eight protease producing isolates were screened out on the basis of their clear zone formation on skim milk agar as well as production of protease in protease producing broth. They were identified on the basis of cultural, morphological and biochemical tests. Among the eight isolates, 3 isolates were found to belong to the genus Halobacterium, and the rest 5 isolates were found to belong to genus Actinobacillus. Among the eight protease producing isolates, one of the isolates was selected as promising protease producer and designated as Halobacterium sp. AF1. Keywords: Actinobacillus; Detergent; Halobacterium; Protease; Proteolytic activity; Tannery. © 2012 JSR Publications. ISSN: 2070-0237 (Print); 2070-0245 (Online). All rights reserved. doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jsr.v4i2.6976 J. Sci. Res. 4 (2), 515-522 (2012)
Proper Actions of Certain Nilpotent Affine Groups with Codimension One Orbits
Authors: Salma N.
Published: May 2012

Criterion for proper actions has been established for a homogeneous space of reductive type by Kobayashi (Math. Ann. 1989, 1996). On the other hand, an analogous criterion to Kobayashis equivalent conditions was proposed by Lipsman (1995) for a nilpotent Lie group . Lipsman's Conjecture: Let  be a simply connected nilpotent Lie group. Then the following two conditions on connected subgroups  and  are equivalent: (i) the action of  on  is proper; (ii)  is compact for any  The condition (i) is important in the study of discontinuous groups for the homogeneous space , while the second condition (ii) can easily be checked. The implication (i)  (ii) is obvious, and the opposite implication (ii)  (i) was known only in some lower dimensional cases. In this paper we prove the equivalence (i) ? (ii) for certain affine nilpotent Lie groups . Keywords: Affine nilpotent groups; Homogeneous manifolds; Proper actions; Properly discontinuous actions; Simply connected nilpotent Lie groups; Compact isotropy property (CI);  Eigenvalues. © 2012 JSR Publications. ISSN: 2070-0237 (Print); 2070-0245 (Online). All rights reserved. doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jsr.v4i2.7889 J. Sci. Res. 4 (2), 315-326 (2012)
Characterization of Bromelain from Morinda citrifolia (Noni)
Authors: Golden K. D. , Smith-Marshall J.
Published: May 2012

Morinda citrifolia from the Rubiaceae family, collected in parish of St. Andrew, Jamaica, West Indies, was investigated for the presence of the  Bromelain-like protein enzyme.  In the process Bromelain from Morinda citrifolia was partially purified and characterized. Fresh plant material was extracted in buffer (sodium acetate-acetic acid (10mM), L-cysteine (1mM), and sodium chloride (0.1M), freeze dried and analyzed using column chromatography and assayed using spectrophotometry in a five step procedure.  The major purification steps involved were ammonium sulphate precipitation, gel-filtration (Sephadex G200), ion exchange chromatography (CM sephadex C25) and (DEAE sephadex A25). The protein content was determined using  the Bradford method. The enzyme displayed an optimum activity at pH 7.1 and a temperature optimum at 35 ºC. A purification fold of 70.9 and percentage recovery of 3.3 was obtained. Inhibition studies using several different inhibitors of the enzyme revealed that the enzyme was susceptible to copper sulphate (0.1mM), mercury chloride (0.1mM), cobalt sulphate (0.1mM), zinc sulphate (0.1mM) and phenylmercury acetate (0.1mM). Both casein and p-Nitrophenylbenzyloxycarbonyl-L-lysinate (CLN) were used as substrates for the enzyme, with the enzyme displaying greater activity when using casein as substrate. Bromelain-like protein enzyme showed high affinity for the substrate casein with a Km of 48.5 µM. Key words: Morinda citrifolia; Bbromelain; Proteolytic enzyme. © 2012 JSR Publications. ISSN: 2070-0237 (Print); 2070-0245 (Online). All rights reserved. doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jsr.v4i2.8125 J. Sci. Res. 4 (2), 445-456 (2012)
Binding Studies and Effect of Light on the Conductance of Intercalated Curcumin into DNA
Authors: Subhan M. A. , Islam M. M. , Chowdhury M. R. U.
Published: May 2012

Curcumin is one of the most valuable ingredients for scientific research in view of medicinal and therapeutic importance. Curcumin is reported to have antitumor and anticancer activities. It can easily be extracted from Turmeric by solvent extraction methods. At first, dye was extracted through reflux and trituration process. Then curcumin was isolated from dye using column chromatography, which was investigated by infrared spectroscopy and melting point. Curcumin formed a complex with Ce3+, Ce(C21H20O6)n, which was confirmed by comparing the IR spectrum of complex with that of ligand. We observed the effect of light on the curcumin intercalated into DNA and found that the electrons in curcumin excited by absorption of light and the conductance of the solution increased gradually when irradiated by UV-light. The result may indicate the electron conducting property of DNA in solution. We focused on the binding of curcumin with DNA. Our investigations also showed that both curcumin and Ce3+ complex have luminescence properties upon irradiation by UV-light.Keywords:  Curcumin; Ce3+-Complex; Luminescence; DNA; Antioxidant.© 2012 JSR Publications. ISSN: 2070-0237 (Print); 2070-0245 (Online). All rights reserved.doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jsr.v4i2.8482  J. Sci. Res. 4 (2), 411-418 (2012)
Physico-Chemical Characterization and Biological Screening of Cyanex 302 complexes
Authors: Pal T. K. , Alam M. A. , Islam M. A. A. A. A. , Paul S. R.
Published: May 2012

Several new complexes of Cr(III), Mn(II), Fe(II), Co(II) and Cu(II) containing Cyanex 302 [bis(2,4,4-trimethylpentyl) monothiophosphinic acid] were synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis, molar conductance, molecular mass determination, magnetic, UV-Visible and IR studies. The prepared metal complexes has the compositions: 2. [CrL3].H2O, 3. K[MnL3].H2O, 4. [FeL2].H2O, 5. K[CoL3] and 6. K[CuL3].H2O (Where, L means anion of bis(2,4,4-trimethylpentyl) monothiophosphinic acid). The complexes 2, 3, 5 and 6 are assumed to have octahedral geometries, but the complex 4 is tetrahedral based on experimental data. From magnetic measurements all the complexes are found to be paramagnetic. Measured molar conductance showed that the complexes 2 and 4 are non-electrolytes and complexes 3, 5 and 6 are electrolytes. Besides, some metal complexes have shown very good antibacterial and antifungal activities.Keywords:  Bis(2,4,4-trimethylpentyl) monothiophosphinic acid; Biological activity.© 2012 JSR Publications. ISSN: 2070-0237 (Print); 2070-0245 (Online). All rights reserved.doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jsr.v4i2.9366 J. Sci. Res. 4 (2), 427-435 (2012)