bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis and structure–activity studies of simplified analogues of aplysiatoxin with antiproliferative activity like bryostatin-1
Authors: Irie Kazuhiro , Kikumori Masayuki , Kamachi Hiroaki , Tanaka Keisuke , Murakami Akira , Yanagita Ryo C. , Tokuda Harukuni , Suzuki Nobutaka , Nagai Hiroshi , Suenaga Kiyotake , Nakagawa Yu
Published: February 2012

Protein kinase C (PKC) isozymes are promising targets for anticancer therapy. Bryostatin-1 (bryo-1), a unique PKC activator with little tumor-promoting activity, is currently in clinical trials for the treatment of cancer. However, its limited availability from natural sources and its synthetic complexity have hampered studies of its mode of action and structural optimization as a therapeutic agent. The development of synthetically more accessible compounds with bryo-1-like activities is thus needed. Recently, we developed a simple and less lipophilic analogue of tumor-promoting aplysiatoxin (ATX) (aplog-1) as a promising lead for bryo-1-like anticancer drugs. Structure–activity studies suggested that local hydrophobicity around the spiroketal moiety of aplog-1 is a crucial determinant of its antiproliferative activity. The hydrophobic analogue (12,12-dimethyl-aplog-1) displayed more potent antiproliferative activity. Moreover, it showed little tumor-promoting activity and even suppressed the tumor promotion by 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol 13-acetate (TPA) in vivo and in vitro. Aplog-1 and bryo-1 bound selectively to novel PKC isozymes (δ, η, and θ) while tumor promoters bound to both conventional and novel PKC isozymes. These results suggest that the unique biological activities of aplog-1 and bryo-1 are ascribable in part to the ability to bind to PKCδ, but weak binding to conventional PKC isozymes might also be important.
Timing of First Dental Checkup for Newly Medicaid-Enrolled Children With an Intellectual or Developmental Disability
Authors: Chi Donald L , Momany Elizabeth T , Jones Michael P , Kuthy Raymond , Damiano Peter C
Published: February 2012

We compared the extent to which having an intellectual or developmental disability was associated with rates at which Iowa Medicaid-enrolled children ages 3 to 8 had first dental checkups after an initial dental examination. We hypothesized that these children would have later first dental checkups than would children without an intellectual or developmental disability. Findings suggest no significant difference in the time to first dental checkup for children by intellectual or developmental disability status. Those who took over 12 months to see a dentist for their initial dental examination were 1.68 times as likely to have an earlier first dental checkup as children whose initial dental examination occurred within 4 months of being enrolled. Results suggest that having an intellectual or developmental disability is not associated with later first dental checkups for this population.
Self-Report Computer-Based Survey of Technology Use by People With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
Authors: Tanis Emily Shea , Palmer Susan , Wehmeyer Michael , Davies Daniel K , Stock Steven E , Lobb Kathy , Bishop Barbara
Published: February 2012

Advancements of technologies in the areas of mobility, hearing and vision, communication, and daily living for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities has the potential to greatly enhance independence and self-determination. Previous research, however, suggests that there is a technological divide with regard to the use of such technologies by people with intellectual and developmental disabilities when compared with the use reported by the general public. To provide current information with regard to technology use by people with intellectual and developmental disabilities by examining the technology needs, use, and barriers to such use experienced by 180 adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, we used QuestNet, a self-directed computer survey program. Results suggest that although there has been progress in technology acquisition and use by people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, an underutilization of technologies across the population remains.
Firm Innovativeness and Its Performance Outcomes: A Meta-Analytic Review and Theoretical Integration
Authors: Rubera Gaia , Kirca Ahmet H.
Published: February 2012

Drawing on the chain-of-effects model as a unifying framework, this meta-analysis indicates that firm innovativeness indirectly affects firm value through its effects on market position and financial position. In addition, the findings suggest that innovativeness has direct positive effects on financial position and firm value. Moreover, the meta-analysis provides evidence of reverse causality in the innovativeness–firm value relationship. Importantly, the results also reveal that the positive effects of firm innovativeness on market position and financial position are stronger for larger firms, for firms that invest more in advertising, for firms in high-tech industries, for innovativeness outputs and for radical innovations. Finally, the meta-analytic evidence also indicates that the relationship between innovativeness and firm value is stronger for smaller firms, for firms that invest more in advertising, for firms in low-tech industries, for innovativeness inputs, for innovativeness culture, and for radical innovations.
Dissociation of Response Variability from Firing Rate Effects in Frontal Eye Field Neurons during Visual Stimulation, Working Memory, and Attention
Authors: Chang Mindy H. , Armstrong Katherine M. , Moore Tirin
Published: February 2012

Recent studies suggest that trial-to-trial variability of neuronal spiking responses may provide important information about behavioral state. Observed changes in variability during sensory stimulation, attention, motor preparation, and visual discrimination suggest that variability may reflect the engagement of neurons in a behavioral task. We examined changes in spiking variability of frontal eye field (FEF) neurons in a change detection task requiring monkeys to remember a visually cued location and direct attention to that location while ignoring distracters elsewhere. In this task, the firing rates (FRs) of FEF neurons not only continuously reflect the location of the remembered cue and select targets, but also predict detection performance on a trial-by-trial basis. Changes in FEF response variability, as measured by the Fano factor (FF), showed clear dissociations from changes in FR. The FF declined in response to visual stimulation at all tested locations, even in the opposite hemifield, indicating much broader spatial tuning of the FF compared with the FR. Furthermore, despite robust spatial modulation of the FR throughout all epochs of the task, spatial tuning of the FF did not persist throughout the delay period, nor did it show attentional modulation. These results indicate that changes in variability, at least in the FEF, are most effectively driven by visual stimulation, while behavioral engagement is not sufficient. Instead, changes in variability may reflect shifts in the balance between feedforward and recurrent sources of excitatory drive.
Alpha/Beta Oscillations Indicate Inhibition of Interfering Visual Memories
Authors: Waldhauser Gerd T. , Johansson Mikael , Hanslmayr Simon
Published: February 2012

Selective retrieval of a specific target memory often leads to the forgetting of related but irrelevant memories. Current cognitive theory states that such retrieval-induced forgetting arises due to inhibition of competing memory traces. To date, however, direct neural evidence for this claim has not been forthcoming. Studies on selective attention suggest that cortical inhibition is mediated by increased brain oscillatory activity in the alpha/beta frequency band. The present study, testing 18 human subjects, investigated whether these mechanisms can be generalized to selective memory retrieval in which competing memories interfere with the retrieval of a target memory. Our experiment was designed so that each cue used to search memory was associated with a target memory and a competitor memory stored in separate brain hemispheres. Retrieval-induced forgetting was observed in a condition in which the competitor memory interfered with target retrieval. Increased oscillatory alpha/beta power was observed over the hemisphere housing the sensory representation of the competitor memory trace and predicted the amount of retrieval-induced forgetting in the subsequent memory test. These results provide the first direct evidence for inhibition of competing memories during episodic memory retrieval and suggest that competitive retrieval is governed by inhibitory mechanisms similar to those employed in selective attention.
Hemispheric Asymmetry and Visuo-Olfactory Integration in Perceiving Subthreshold (Micro) Fearful Expressions
Authors: Forscher Emily C. , Li Wen
Published: February 2012

Multisensory integration is ubiquitous, facilitating perception beyond the limit of individual senses. This mechanism is especially salient when individual sensory input is weak (i.e., the principle of inverse effectiveness), fusing subthreshold cues into tangible percepts. Nevertheless, it is unclear how this rule applies to threat perception, synthesizing elusive, discrete traces of a threat into a discernible danger signal. In light of hemispheric asymmetry in threat processing, we combined parafoveal stimulus presentation and the contralateral P1 visual event-related potential to investigate how aversive olfactory inputs enhance visual perception of highly degraded, subthreshold fearful expressions. The dominant right hemisphere exhibited early visual discrimination between subtle fear and neutral expressions, independently of accompanying odors. In the left hemisphere, differential visual processing occurred only at the convergence of negative odors and minute facial fear, highlighting the success and necessity of visuo-olfactory threat integration in this disadvantaged hemisphere. Reaction time data from a subsequent dot-detection task complemented these neural findings, revealing odor-dependent and hemisphere-specific modulation of spatial attention to facial expressions. Our evidence thus indicates cross-modal threat integration in basic visual perception in humans that captures minimal threat information, especially in the blind right hemifield. Critically, this interaction between multisensory synergy and hemispheric asymmetry in threat perception may underlie the multifaceted fear experiences of everyday life.
Pharmacological Blockade of the Cold Receptor TRPM8 Attenuates Autonomic and Behavioral Cold Defenses and Decreases Deep Body Temperature
Authors: Almeida M. Camila , Hew-Butler Tamara , Soriano Renato N. , Rao Sara , Wang Weiya , Wang Judy , Tamayo Nuria , Oliveira Daniela L. , Nucci Tatiane B. , Aryal Prafulla , Garami Andras , Bautista Diana , Gavva Narender R. , Romanovsky Andrej A.
Published: February 2012

We studiedN-(2-aminoethyl)-N-(4-(benzyloxy)-3-methoxybenzyl)thiophene-2-carboxamide hydrochloride (M8-B), a selective and potent antagonist of the transient receptor potential melastatin-8 (TRPM8) channel.In vitro, M8-B blocked cold-induced and TRPM8-agonist-induced activation of rat, human, and murine TRPM8 channels, including those on primary sensory neurons.In vivo, M8-B decreased deep body temperature (Tb) inTrpm8+/+mice and rats, but not inTrpm8−/−mice, thus suggesting an on-target action. Intravenous administration of M8-B was more effective in decreasing Tbin rats than intrathecal or intracerebroventricular administration, indicating a peripheral action. M8-B attenuated cold-induced c-Fos expression in the lateral parabrachial nucleus, thus indicating a site of action within the cutaneous cooling neural pathway to thermoeffectors, presumably on sensory neurons. A low intravenous dose of M8-B did not affect Tbat either a constantly high or a constantly low ambient temperature (Ta), but the same dose readily decreased Tbif rats were kept at a high Taduring the M8-B infusion and transferred to a low Taimmediately thereafter. These data suggest that both a successful delivery of M8-B to the skin (high cutaneous perfusion) and the activation of cutaneous TRPM8 channels (by cold) are required for the hypothermic action of M8-B. At tail-skin temperatures <23°C, the magnitude of the M8-B-induced decrease in Tbwas inversely related to skin temperature, thus suggesting that M8-B blocks thermal (cold) activation of TRPM8. M8-B affected all thermoeffectors studied (thermopreferendum, tail-skin vasoconstriction, and brown fat thermogenesis), thus suggesting that TRPM8 is a universal cold receptor in the thermoregulation system.
Working Memory for Tonal and Atonal Sequences during a Forward and a Backward Recognition Task
Authors: Schulze Katrin , Jay Dowling W. , Tillmann Barbara
Published: February 2012

we investigated working memory (WM) performance for tone sequences that either respected musical regularities (tonal sequences) or did not (atonal sequences) using a forward and a backward recognition task. Participants indicated whether two sequences were the same or different, with “same” being defined as all tones played correctly in either the same order (forward task) or backward order (backward task). For the forward task, nonmusician and musician participants showed better performance for tonal than for atonal sequences, therefore supporting the hypothesis that musically structured material increased WM performance during maintenance of tone information. For the backward task, neither nonmusicians nor musicians showed better performance for tonal compared to atonal sequences. Our findings suggest that musical structure influences WM for tones during maintenance (forward recognition task), but not during manipulation (backward recognition task).
The Role of Formal Structure in Liking for Popular Music
Authors: Rolison Jonathan J. , Edworthy Judy
Published: February 2012

the effect of restructuring the form of three unfamiliar pop/rock songs was investigated in two experiments. In the first experiment, listeners' judgements of the likely location of sections of novel popular songs were explored by requiring participants to place the eight sections (Intro – Verse 1 – Chorus 1 – Verse 2 – Chorus 2 – Bridge (solo) – Chorus 3 – Extro) of the songs into the locations they thought them most likely to occur within the song. Results revealed that participants were able to place the sections in approximately the right location with some accuracy, though they were unable to differentiate between choruses. In Experiment 2, three versions of each of the songs were presented in three different structures: intact (original form), medium restructured (the sections in a moderately changed order), and highly restructured (more severe restructuring). The results show that listeners' judgments of predictability and liking were largely uninfluenced by the restructuring of the songs, in line with findings for classical music. Moment-by-moment liking judgements of the songs demonstrated a change in liking judgements with repeated exposure, though the trend was downwards with repeated exposure rather than upwards. Detailed analysis of moment-by-moment judgements at the ends and beginnings of sections showed that listeners were able to respond quickly to intact songs, but not to restructured songs. The results suggest that concatenism prevails in listening to popular song at the expense of paying attention to larger structural features.
Effects of Silicon Doping and Threading Dislocation Density on Stress Evolution in AlGaN Films
Authors: Redwing Joan M. , Manning Ian C. , Weng Xiaojun , Eichfeld Sarah M. , Acord Jeremy D. , Fanton Mark A. , Snyder David W.
Published: February 2012

In-situ wafer curvature measurements were used to study the effect of Si doping on intrinsic growth stress during the metalorganic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD) growth of AlxGa1-xN (x=0-0.62) layers on SiC substrates. Post-growth transmission electron microscopy (TEM) characterization was used to correlate measured changes in stress with changes in film microstructure. Si doping was found to result in the inclination of edge-type threading dislocations (TDs) in AlxGa1-xN which resulted in a relaxation of compressive stress and generation of tensile stress. The experimentally measured stress gradient was similar to that predicted by an effective climb model. Dislocation inclination resulted in a reduction in the TD density for Si-doped layers compared to undoped AlxGa1-xN likely due to increased opportunities for dislocation interaction and annihilation. The TD density, which increased with increasing Al-fraction, was found to significantly alter the stress gradients in the films. Film stress was also observed to play a role in TD inclination. In undoped AlxGa1-xN, TD inclination was observed only when the film grew under a compressive stress while in Si-doped AlxGa1-xN, TD inclination was observed independent of the sign or magnitude of the film stress. Si dopants are believed to alter the concentration of surface vacancies which gives rise to dislocation jog via a surface-mediated climb mechanism.
Legitimating Tenor Relationships
Authors: Don Alexanne
Published: February 2012

This paper discusses the way that verbal behaviour may be responded to in ways that serve to position interactants along a number of interpersonal dimensions. These dimensions are collectively referred to as Tenor by Systemic Functional Linguistics: Contact (affiliation), Status (reciprocity), and Axiology (alignment). Through publicly signalling dis/alignment, responses can also act to ratify or legitimate the verbal behaviour and hence contribute to the negotiation over time of group practices or ‘norms’, as well as individual ‘identities’ within the group. Several excerpts from an electronically-mediated written conversation are discussed using a set of Tenor dimensions which reference positions either ‘latent’ and/or ‘emerging’ in the discourse community. Interpersonal positioning effected in the texts may be thereby tracked as unfolding logogenetically within each text, and as developing normed behaviour phylogenetically within the discourse community in the study – as well as in other contexts of interaction. The interpersonal (tenor) dimensions referred to here are partially activated through the use of the resources of Appraisal - Attitude and their targets in particular - and therefore the discussion highlights several evaluative elements in the texts.
Evaluating seismic source mechanism with phasor analysis
Authors: Hudyma M. , Beneteau D. , Potvin Y.
Published: February 2012

Phasor analysis is a means of identifying if there are a significant number of construction blasts with a population of natural earthquakes. The application of phasor analysis has been extended to mining-induced seismic data. With a subtle modification, it can be used to infer seismic source mechanism in a population of mining-induced seismic events. A statistically significant phasor sum is related to stress-driven rockmass fracturing. For mining-induced seismic events on geological features, the phasor sum is random. The analysis can potentially identify temporal changes in seismic source mechanism. In some cases, the results of phasor analysis are scale dependent, giving insight into the breakdown of self-similarity for some populations of seismic events.
Meta‐population evidence of oriented chain migration in northern gannets (Morus bassanus)
Authors: Fort Jérôme , Pettex Emeline , Tremblay Yann , Lorentsen Svein-Håkon , Garthe Stefan , Votier Stephen , Pons Jean Baptiste , Siorat François , Furness Robert W , Grecian W James , Bearhop Stuart , Montevecchi William A , Grémillet David
Published: February 2012

Although oriented migrations have been identified in many terrestrial bird species, the post‐breeding‐season movements of seabirds are generally regarded as dispersive. We used geolocator tags to reveal post‐breeding movements and winter distribution of northern gannets (Morus bassanus) at a meta‐population scale. By focusing on five breeding colonies of European gannets, we show that their breeding and wintering grounds are connected by a major flyway running along the coasts of Western Europe and Africa. Moreover, maximum winter distance to colony was similar across colonies despite their wide latitudinal range. In contrast with the general opinion that large pelagic birds such as gannets have unlimited ranges beyond the breeding season, our findings strongly suggest oriented chain migration in northern gannets (a pattern in which populations move uniformly southward) and highlight the benefit of meta‐population approaches for studying seabird movements. We argue that the inclusion of such processes in ocean management plans is essential to improve efforts in marine biodiversity conservation.
Azithromycin as an Adjunctive Treatment of Generalized Severe Chronic Periodontitis: Clinical, Microbiologic, and Biochemical Parameters
Authors: Han Buket , Emingil Gülnur , Özdemir Güven , Tervahartiala Taina , Vural Caner , Atilla Gül , Baylas Haluk , Sorsa Timo
Published: February 2012

Background: This study examines the efficacy of azithromycin in combination with non‐surgical periodontal therapy on clinical and microbiologic parameters and gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) matrix metalloproteinases‐8 (MMP‐8) levels over 6 months in patients with severe generalized chronic periodontitis (CP).

Methods: Twenty‐eight of 36 patients with severe generalized CP were included in this randomized, double‐masked, placebo‐controlled, parallel‐arm study. They were randomly assigned to azithromycin or placebo groups (500 mg, once daily for 3 days). Probing depth (PD), clinical attachment level, dichotomous presence or absence of supragingival plaque accumulation, and bleeding on probing were recorded. GCF samples were obtained from one single‐rooted tooth with PD ≥ 6 mm, whereas microbiologic samples were collected from two single‐rooted teeth with PD ≥ 6 mm. Microbiologic parameters were analyzed by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction for Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, Porphyromonas gingivalis, Tannerella forsythia, Fusobacterium nucleatum, Prevotella intermedia, and total bacteria. GCF MMP‐8 levels were determined by immunofluorescence assay.

Results: Azithromycin and placebo groups demonstrated similar but significant improvements in all clinical parameters (P <0.05). A. actinomycetemcomitans, P. gingivalis, T. forsythia, P. intermedia, and total bacteria significantly decreased over the 6‐month period in both groups, whereas F. nucleatum was significantly reduced in all visits in the azithromycin group, with the levels also being lower compared with those of the placebo group (P <0.05). The azithromycin and placebo groups exhibited significant reduction in GCF MMP‐8 levels at the post‐treatment visit and at 2 weeks (P <0.05).

Conclusion: On the basis of the present findings, it can be concluded that adjunctive azithromycin provides no additional benefit over non‐surgical periodontal treatment on parameters investigated in patients with severe generalized CP.
College Student Perceptions on Campus Alcohol Policies and Consumption Patterns
Authors: Marshall Brenda L. , Roberts Katherine J. , Donnelly Joseph W. , Rutledge Imani N.
Published: February 2012

Environmental strategies for colleges and universities to reduce alcohol consumption among their students include the development and enforcement of campus alcohol policies. This study examines students' knowledge and attitudes toward campus alcohol policies and how they relate to alcohol consumption and alcohol social norms. A sample of 422 freshman students was surveyed during their first month at a 4-year public college. Findings indicated that the majority of students (89%) were aware of campus policies, yet of those who were aware, less than half (44%) were accepting of these campus rules and regulations. In addition, the majority (79%) of students drank at social events, despite this behavior being in direct violation of campus alcohol policies. However, those who supported campus rules consumed significantly less alcohol at social events than those who opposed or had no opinion of the rules. Also, those who supported the rules perceived that their peers and students in general consumed significantly less alcohol at social events than those who were opposed or had no opinion. This outcome supports the premise established by several theories of behavior change including the theory of planned behavior, which state that behavior is influenced less by knowledge than by attitude and intention.
Does Marijuana Use Lead to Aggression and Violent Behavior?
Authors: Ostrowsky Michael K.
Published: February 2012

Marijuana use and violent behavior are causing widespread public concern. This article reviews theory and research on the relation between marijuana use and aggressive/violent behavior. It is evident from the inconsistent findings in the literature that the exact nature of the relation remains unclear. This article identifies several possible reasons for these contradictory findings and provides suggestions for future research. In particular, more research is needed on the different subtypes of aggressive behavior. Further research is also needed to elucidate the associations between gender, marijuana use, and violent behavior. Likewise, an important task for future research is to continue to tease apart the complex relations between gang involvement, marijuana use, and violent behavior. Longitudinal studies also warrant further investigation. Moreover, future research should control for several potentially confounding variables.
Efficacy of a Web-Based, Tailored, Alcohol Prevention/Intervention Program for College Students: 3-Month Follow-up
Authors: Bingham C. Raymond , Barretto Andrea Ippel , Walton Maureen A. , Bryant Christopher M. , Shope Jean T. , Raghunathan Trivellore E.
Published: February 2012

This study presents the results of an efficacy evaluation of a web-based brief motivational alcohol prevention/intervention program called Michigan Prevention and Alcohol Safety for Students (M-PASS). Four on-line sessions providing individually-tailored feedback were delivered to first-year college students over 9 weeks. Non- and low-risk drinking participants received risk prevention, while high-risk drinking participants received a risk-reduction intervention. Both intervention and control groups were surveyed at baseline and at a 3-month follow-up. Analysis showed positive effects for both men and women on stage of change, drinking behavior, drinking motivation and attitudes, and use of risk-reduction strategies. These results provided evidence of efficacy and found that M-PASS had both intervention and prevention effects, making it unique among currently developed brief alcohol interventions for college students.
Niko Bartulovic on the eve of World War II: the ideological views of the Croatian intelectual
Authors: Bozic Sofija
Published: February 2012

The article reviews the ideological attitudes of the Croatian writer and
engaged intellectual Niko Bartulovic, in the second half of the 20 century.
Bartulovic was democratically committed, a prominent opponent of extremist
forces and movements of the time in politics, fascism, communism,
clericalism, enthusiastic supporter of the Yugoslav idea and Yugoslavia,
based on the principle of national unity. Yugoslav champion real, he accepted
the existence of Serbian, Croatian and Slovenian identity along with a
feeling of belonging to a single nation, while the total integration of
Serbs, Croats and Slovenes left for the future. In order to prevent
separatist tendencies which threatened the internal stability of Yugoslavia,
stood up to calm the tension in the Serbian-Croatian relations and consensual
resolution of the Croatian question in a way that will not jeopardize the
existence of a common state of Serbs, Croats and Slovenes.
Srpskoslovenska Knjiga o Ruti prema rukopisu Pcinjske biblije
Authors: Savic Viktor
Published: February 2012

nema
Apolonije, Grujo i Vuk
Authors: Radulovic Nemanja
Published: February 2012

nema
O pseudonimu Vojislava Ilica - Crni Domino
Authors: Peric Djordje
Published: February 2012

nema
Nekoliko pisama Milana Jovanovica Stoimirovica iz perioda okupacije 1941-1944
Authors: Djordjevic Bojan
Published: February 2012

nema
Prevalence of Diabetes and Intermediate Hyperglycemia Among Adults From the First Multinational Study of Noncommunicable Diseases in Six Central American Countries
Authors: Barcelo Alberto , Gregg Edward W. , Gerzoff Robert B. , Wong Roy , Perez Flores Enrique , Ramirez-Zea Manuel , Cafiero Elizabeth , Altamirano Lesbia , Ascencio Rivera Melanie , de Cosio Gerardo , de Maza Martha Dinorah , del Aguila Roberto , Emanuel Englebert , Gil Enrique , Gough Ethan , Jenkins Valerie , Orellana Patrícia , Palma Ruben , Palomo Ruben , Pastora Martha , Peña Rodolfo , Pineda Elia , Rodriguez Bismark , Tacsan Luis , Thompson Loraine , Villagra Lucy ,   for the CAMDI Collaborative Study Group
Published: February 2012

OBJECTIVE

The increasing burdens of obesity and diabetes are two of the most prominent threats to the health of populations of developed and developing countries alike. The Central America Diabetes Initiative (CAMDI) is the first study to examine the prevalence of diabetes in Central America.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

The CAMDI survey was a cross-sectional survey based on a probabilistic sample of the noninstitutionalized population of five Central American populations conducted between 2003 and 2006. The total sample population was 10,822, of whom 7,234 (67%) underwent anthropometry measurement and a fasting blood glucose or 2-h oral glucose tolerance test.

RESULTS

The total prevalence of diabetes was 8.5%, but was higher in Belize (12.9%) and lower in Honduras (5.4%). Of the screened population, 18.6% had impaired glucose tolerance/impaired fasting glucose.

CONCLUSIONS

As this population ages, the prevalence of diabetes is likely to continue to rise in a dramatic and devastating manner. Preventive strategies must be quickly introduced.
Analysis of emerging organic contaminants in environmental solid samples
Authors: Tadeo José , Sánchez-Brunete Consuelo , Albero Beatriz , García-Valcárcel Ana , Pérez Rosa
Published: February 2012

Spreading sewage sludge on agricultural lands has been actively promoted by national authorities as an economic way of recycling. However, as by-product of wastewater treatment, sewage sludge may contain toxic substances, which could be incorporated into agricultural products or be distributed in the environment. Moreover, sediments can be contaminated by the discharge of wastewater effluents into rivers. This article reviews the determination of emerging contaminants (surfactants, flame retardants, pharmaceuticals and personal care products) in environmental solid samples (sludge, soil and sediment). Sample preparation, including extraction and clean-up, as well as the subsequent instrumental determination of contaminants are discussed. Recent applications of extraction techniques, such as Soxhlet extraction, ultrasound assisted extraction, pressurised liquid extraction, microwave assisted extraction and matrix solid-phase dispersion to the analysis of emerging contaminants in environmental solid samples are reviewed. Determination of these contaminants, generally carried out by gas chromatography and liquid chromatography coupled with different detectors, especially mass spectrometry for the identification and quantification of residues, is also summarised and discussed.
Analytical sonochemistry; developments, applications, and hyphenations of ultrasound in sample preparation and analytical techniques
Authors: Seidi Shahram , Yamini Yadollah
Published: February 2012

Ultrasonic assistance is one of the great successes of modern analytical chemistry, which uses this energy for a variety of purposes in relation to sample preparation and development of methods for the analysis of numerous contaminants including organic and inorganic compounds. This review will attempt to provide an overview of more recent applications of ultrasound in different environmental and biological samples such as food, soil and water as well as a brief description of the theoretical understanding of this method. Also, the possibility of coupling ultrasound with other analytical techniques will be discussed.
Preparation of a series of N-alkyl-3-boronopyridinium halides and study of their stability in the presence of hydrogen peroxide
Authors: Karpichev Yevgen , Matondo Hubert , Kapitanov Illia , Savsunenko Oleksandr , Vedrenne Marc , Poinsot Verena , Rico-Lattes Isabelle , Lattes Armand
Published: February 2012

A simple and efficient protocol for the preparation of a series of N-alkyl-3-boronopyridinium salts is described which requires exposure of 3-pyridineboronic acid neopentylglycol ester and corresponding alkyle halide to microwave irradiation followed by boronic ester hydrolysis. The technique employed drastically reduces the reaction time and prevents thermal degradation and the formation of side products. Water solutions of the obtained boronopyridinium salts are shown to be stable at room temperature in wide pH range as well as in the presence of hydrogen peroxide at pH 10.0 for 72 h.
IRPA initiative on radiation protection culture
Authors: Golnik Natalia , Tulik Piotr
Published: February 2012

IRPA initiative on radiation protection culture

The concept of radiation protection culture, proposed by French Society for Radiation Protection (SFRP) and then launched by International Radiation Protection Association (IRPA) is presented. The paper is focused on the role of radiation culture in preventing unjustified fear associated with the use of radiation. Principles of RP culture and optimization of radiation protection, as well as the problems how RP culture can be learned and how to engage the stakeholders are considered.
An assessment of the water requirements of a mountain pasture sward in the Polish Western Carpathians
Authors: Kuźniar Antoni , Twardy Stanisław , Kowalczyk Agnieszka , Kostuch Marek
Published: February 2012

An assessment of the water requirements of a mountain pasture sward in the Polish Western Carpathians

The water requirements of the pasture sward using the Penman-Monteith method (FAO-56), which is seldom applied in Poland, was assessed. The reference crop evapotranspiration ETo from a hypothetical grass crop with an assumed crop height of 0.12 m, a fixed surface resistance of 70 s·m-1 and an albedo of 0.23, was used. These assumptions are similar under conditions of ruminant grazing. ETo was computed by using meteorological data from 43 weather stations. The crop evapotranspiration ETc is the product of ETo, and single crop coefficient Kc. The differences between precipitation and ETo and ETc (climatic water balances) were determined for mountain pastures. The results were summarised form of a table and maps of isohyets and isolines elaborated by applying the Geographic Information System techniques (Arc View 9) with the data interpolated by the geostatic method (Kriging).
Intercultural Differences in the Purchase and Information Behaviour of Young Consumers
Authors: Klemenčič Beno , Devetak Gabrijel , Števančec Darko
Published: February 2012

Intercultural Differences in the Purchase and Information Behaviour of Young Consumers

Pressures in the contemporary marketing environment are getting bigger and companies and marketers are required to know consumers and their purchase and information behaviour. In this article we studied the behaviour of consumers and the factors of purchase and information behaviour of young consumers when choosing clothes. We found out about the meaning of individual clothing characteristics having impact on the purchase decision making (price, trademark, fitting of clothing, design, quality, etc.). Consumers receive and look for information at different sources (radio commercials, TV commercials and shows, fashion magazines, catalogue sales, social networks, friends and acquaintances, etc.). With the empiric research we wanted to find out to what measure individual sources influence the purchase decision of an individual. We studied young people aged from 15 to 24 in the countries of the EU (Slovenia, Austria and Germany) and the United States of America. We especially focused on characteristic differences. Knowing intercultural differences is important for global companies of the clothing industry for forming their marketing strategies. On the sample of 440 young people who took part in the survey we found out that intercultural differences exist regarding the influence of individual information sources and regarding the factors of purchase decision making. Considering the stated we propose companies operating in global markets on both continents to prepare differentiated marketing strategies.
Toxicological aspects of the use of phenolic compounds in disease prevention
Authors: Kyselova Zuzana
Published: February 2012

Toxicological aspects of the use of phenolic compounds in disease prevention

The consumption of a diet low in fat and enhanced by fruits and vegetables, especially rich in phenolic compounds, may reduce risks of many civilization diseases. The use of traditional medicines, mainly derived from plant sources, has become an attractive segment in the management of many lifestyle diseases. Concerning the application of dietary supplements (based on phenolic compounds) in common practice, the ongoing debate over possible adverse effects of certain nutrients and dosage levels is of great importance. Since dietary supplements are not classified as drugs, their potential toxicities and interactions have not been thoroughly evaluated. First, this review will introduce phenolic compounds as natural substances beneficial for human health. Second, the potential dual mode of action of flavonoids will be outlined. Third, potential deleterious impacts of phenolic compounds utilization will be discussed: pro-oxidant and estrogenic activities, cancerogenic potential, cytotoxic effects, apoptosis induction and flavonoid-drug interaction. Finally, future trends within the research field will be indicated.
Virtual and Material Models of Human Thoracic-Lumbar Spine with Compressive Fracture Based on Patients' CT Data and the Rapid Prototyping Technique
Authors: Dąbrowska-Tkaczyk Anna , Floriańczyk Anna , Grygoruk Roman , Skalski Konstanty , Borkowski Piotr
Published: February 2012

Virtual and Material Models of Human Thoracic-Lumbar Spine with Compressive Fracture Based on Patients' CT Data and the Rapid Prototyping Technique

The paper presents the development procedures for both virtual 3D-CAD and material models of fractured segments of human spine formulated with the use of computer tomography (CT) and rapid prototyping (RP) technique. The research is a part of the project within the framework of which a database is developed, comprising both 3D-CAD and material models of segments of thoracic-lumbar spine in which one vertebrae is subjected to compressive fracture for a selected type of clinical cases. The project is devoted to relocation and stabilisation procedures of fractured vertebrae made with the use of ligamentotaxis method. The paper presents models developed for five patients and, for comparison purposes, one for a normal spine. The RP material models have been built basing on the corresponding 3D-CAD ones with the use of fused deposition modelling (FDM) technology. 3D imaging of spine segments in terms of 3D-CAD and material models allows for the analysis of bone structures, classification of clinical cases and provides the surgeons with the data helpful in choosing the proper way of treatment. The application of the developed models to numerical and experimental simulations of relocation procedure of fractured vertebra is planned.
Defining the threshold level of hydrological drought in lake catchments
Authors: Tomaszewski Edmund
Published: February 2012

Defining the threshold level of hydrological drought in lake catchments

Various criteria used for identification of a hydrological drought are presented on the basis of the threshold level method. Genetic criteria as well as temporal variability are analysed. In conclusion chosen criteria for lake catchments are recommended.
Patterns of seasonal phytoplankton dynamics as the element of ecological successional changes proceeding in a lake (Lake Kortowskie, northern Poland)
Authors: Jaworska Bożena , Zdanowski Bogusław
Published: February 2012

Patterns of seasonal phytoplankton dynamics as the element of ecological successional changes proceeding in a lake (Lake Kortowskie, northern Poland)

The aim of the research was to determine the successional changes proceeding in the phytoplankton of a lake. The basis of the study was the analysis of long-term seasonal changes in the taxonomic structure and the estimation of the intensity of algal community development in phytoplankton of Lake Kortowskie. Seasonal changes in the phytoplankton taxonomic structure manifested themselves as a decreasing share of Bacillariophyceae in spring and autumn and Chlorophyta in summer phytoplankton. The retreating chlorophytes and the diatoms were replaced by blue-green algae, the increasing share of which caused a reduction in the stability of the remaining phytoplankton taxonomic groups, and consequently, taxonomic shifts and progressive development of the overall phytoplankton community in all phenological seasons. Intensive algal growth was observed in spring and lasted until late autumn. The highest phytoplankton biomass was always recorded in summer. Summer phytoplankton development was related to increased bluegreen algae domination, the massive growth of which was observed from spring to autumn. The development of the Cyanoprokaryota community had a negative impact on the diatoms, since the latter earlier disappeared from the biocenosis in spring and re-developed to a lesser degree in autumn.
The Significance of Business Localization Factors in the Czech Republic
Authors: Jirásková Eliška , Žižka Miroslav
Published: February 2012

The Significance of Business Localization Factors in the Czech Republic

This article is concerned with the significance of individual localization factors during the decision-making of economic subjects regarding the location of their businesses. In the first phase of the research, the investigated localization factors were divided into four groups into regional, local, business, labor and infrastructure. The selected localization factors were investigated with the help of an empirical examination of thirteen selected economic branches in the secondary and tertiary sectors. In subsequent stages, a statistical analysis of the acquired data was performed; the selected economic sections were compared among themselves; and with the help of a diffusion analysis, the dependence of the evaluation on the size of the enterprise and on the economic activities of the selected respondents was investigated. The main goal of the research was to identify the current localization factors associated with supplier and customer markets and to determine their significance. In the context of the research, the hypothesis was verified that despite the existence of various approaches to determining localization factors, in part there are localization factors that act universally in all economic branches and further factors that specifically manifest themselves only in some branches. In the context of each factor, investigated was whether the evaluation of a factor depends on the economic branch and whether it is possible to consider an investigated factor as universal. It was also determined whether or not the evaluation of a factor is directly proportionate to the size of the business. From the research results, it follows that during localization, businesses place the greatest significance on the availability of information and communications technologies, geographic proximity to customers, availability of qualified human resources and on transportation costs. Localization decision-making is affected by many factors and depends on a large number of circumstances.
Super Duality and Homology of Unitarizable Modules of Lie Algebras
Authors: Huang Po-Yi , Lam Ngau , To Tze-Ming
Published: February 2012

The

\mathfrak u

-homology formulas for unitarizable modules at negative levels over classical Lie algebras of infinite rank of types

\mathfrak gl (n)

,

\mathfrak sp (2n)

and

\mathfrak so (2n)

are obtained. As a consequence, we recover the Enright's formulas for three Hermitian symmetric pairs of classical types

(SU(p,q),SU(p)\times SU(q))

,

(Sp(2n),U(n))

and

(SO^\ast(2n),U(n))

.
Homotopical Presentations and Calculations of Algebraic $K_0$-Groups for Rings of Continuous Functions
Authors: Kihara Hiroshi , Oda Nobuyuki
Published: February 2012

Let

K_0(C_{\Bbb F}(X))

=

K_0\circ C_{\Bbb F}(X)

be the

K_0

-group of the ring

C_{\Bbb F}(X)

of

{\Bbb F}

-valued continuous functions on a topological space

X

, where

{\Bbb F}

is the field of real or complex numbers or the quaternion algebra. It is known that the functor

K_0\circ C_{\Bbb F}

is representable on the category of compact Hausdorff spaces. It is a homotopy functor which is not representable on the category of topological spaces. Making use of the compactly-bounded homotopy set, which is a variant of the homotopy set, the functor

K_0\circ C_{\Bbb F}

has a homotopical presentation by the product of the ring of integers

{\Bbb Z}

and the infinite Grassmannian

G_{\infty}(\Bbb F )

. This presentation makes it possible to calculate the groups

K_0(C_{\Bbb F}(X))

explicitly for some infinite dimensional complexes

X

by use of the results of H. Miller on Sullivan conjecture.
Unitary Representations of the Group of Diffeomorphisms via Restricted Product Measures with Infinite Mass II
Authors: Shimomura Hiroaki
Published: February 2012

This paper concerns the problem of irreducibly decomposing unitary representations of the group

\text{Diff}_0(M)

of diffeomorphisms with compact support on the smooth manifold

M

. As was shown in [19], these representations are decomposable under a fairly mild condition. In this paper, we consider a specific example of unitary representations

(T,\text{Diff}_0(M))

that has been considered by [4].

(T,\text{Diff}_0(M))

is already a factor representation of type

\text{II}_\infty

; in addition, it may be decomposed into irreducible components through the left regular representatation of the group

{\frak{S}}_\infty

of the finite permutations. We describe the concrete realization of these irreducible components. The results obtained herein have some resemblance to the finite-dimensional case of [20] with the exception of the factor representatation. In addition, we will give another proofs of the irreducibility and equivalence that were obtained by [4].
Affine Nil-Hecke Algebras and Braided Differential Structure on Affine Weyl Groups
Authors: Kirillov Anatol N. , Maeno Toshiaki
Published: February 2012

We construct a model of the affine nil-Hecke algebra as a subalgebra of the Nichols-Woronowicz algebra associated to a Yetter-Drinfeld module over the affine Weyl group. We also discuss the Peterson isomorphism between the homology of the affine Grassmannian and the small quantum cohomology ring of the flag variety in terms of the braided differential calculus.
Corrigendum: “Homogenized Spectral Problems for Exactly Solvable Operators: Asymptotics of Polynomial Eigenfunctions”
Authors: Borcea Julius , Bøgvad Rikard , Shapiro Boris
Published: February 2012

Here we provide a correct proof of Proposition 6 of [2]. No other results of the latter paper are affected.
The correlation between media and technology: The context of the gradual rise of new media
Authors: Kohutova Radka
Published: February 2012

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/bodhi.v4i1.5810Bodhi 2010 4(1): 48-70
Globalization, pedagogy and international literature for children and young adults
Authors: Adhikari Hari R
Published: February 2012

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/bodhi.v4i1.5812Bodhi 2010 4(1): 81-99
Diaspora studies: Roots and critical dimensions
Authors: Kafle Hem Raj
Published: February 2012

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/bodhi.v4i1.5815Bodhi 2010 4(1): 136-149
Sahridayata in communication
Authors: Adhikary Nirmala Mani
Published: February 2012

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/bodhi.v4i1.5816 Bodhi 2010 4(1): 150-160