bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Distribution of the homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance in Mexican children and adolescents
Authors: Aradillas-García Celia , Rodríguez-Morán Martha , Garay-Sevilla María Eugenia , Malacara Juan Manuel , Rascon-Pacheco Ramón Alberto , Guerrero-Romero Fernando
Published: November 2011

Objective

Several cutoff points of the homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR; varying from 2.5 to 4.0) have been suggested for diagnosing IR in youth. In this study, we determined the distribution of the HOMA-IR in Mexican children and adolescents.

Design and methods

A total of 6132 children and adolescents from San Luis Potosi, León, Queretaro, and Durango, which are cities in central and northern Mexico, were enrolled in a population-based cross-sectional study. Eligible participants were apparently healthy children and adolescents aged 6–18 years. Pregnancy and the presence of chronic illnesses were exclusion criteria.

Results

A total of 3701 (60.3%) girls and 2431 (39.7%) boys were included in this study. In the overall population, the mean body mass index, insulin levels, and fasting glucose levels were 21.8±1.3 kg/m2, 7.1±3.2 μU/ml, and 86.2±10.0 mg/dl respectively. The concentrations of insulin and fasting glucose gradually increased from 6 to 12 years of age, whereas the concentrations tended to plateau in the 13- to 18-year-old population. The absolute mean of the HOMA-IR was 2.89±0.7. The HOMA-IR gradually increased with age and reached a plateau at 13 years of age.

Conclusions

Because the insulin concentrations, glucose levels, and HOMA-IR exhibited a gradual increase with age that was not related to obesity, our results suggested that the evaluation of IR in children should be based on percentiles of the HOMA-IR rather than a dichotomous value derived from a single cutoff point.
Porcine uterus contains a population of mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Miernik Katarzyna , Karasinski Janusz
Published: November 2011

The uterus has a remarkable ability of cycling remodeling throughout the reproductive life of the female. Recent findings in the human and mouse indicate that adult stem/progenitor cells may play a prominent role in the maintenance of uterine endometrial and myometrial homeostasis. We aimed to characterize the prospective stem/progenitor cells in the porcine uterus and establish a new model for uterine stem cell research. In this study, we demonstrated that cells isolated from porcine uterus have capacity for in vitro differentiation into adipogenic and osteogenic lineages and express the mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) markers CD29, CD44, CD144, CD105, and CD140b as revealed by RT-PCR. Moreover, we showed that some cells isolated from the porcine uterus when cultured at low density produce large clones with an efficiency of 0.035%. Simultaneously, they were negative for hematopoietic stem cell markers such as CD34 and CD45. Low expression of nestin, which is specific for neural stem cells and various progenitor cells, was also detected. We conclude that the porcine uterus contains a small population of undifferentiated cells with MSC-like properties similar to human and mouse uteri.
Follicular assembly: mechanisms of action
Authors: Pepling Melissa E
Published: November 2011

The differentiation of primordial germ cells (PGCs) into functional oocytes is important for the continuation of species. In mammals, PGCs begin to differentiate into oocytes during embryonic development. Oocytes develop in clusters called germ line cysts. During fetal or neonatal development, germ cell cysts break apart into single oocytes that become surrounded by pregranulosa cells to form primordial follicles. During the process of cyst breakdown, a subset of cells in each cyst undergoes cell death with only one-third of the initial number of oocytes surviving to form primordial follicles. The mechanisms that control cyst breakdown, oocyte survival, and follicle assembly are currently under investigation. This review describes the mechanisms that have been implicated in the control of primordial follicle formation, which include programmed cell death regulation, growth factor and other signaling pathways, regulation by transcription factors and hormones, meiotic progression, and changes in cell adhesion. Elucidation of mechanisms leading to formation of the primordial follicle pool will help research efforts in ovarian biology and improve treatments of female infertility, premature ovarian failure, and reproductive cancers.
Cobalamin F Disease Detected by Newborn Screening and Follow-up on a 14-Year-Old Patient
Authors: Oladipo Olajumoke , Rosenblatt David S. , Watkins David , Miousse Isabelle Racine , Sprietsma Laurie , Dietzen Dennis J. , Shinawi Marwan
Published: November 2011

The cobalamin F (cblF) defect is caused by disturbed lysosomal release of cobalamin (vitamin B12) into the cytoplasm caused by mutations in the LMBRD1 gene. We present the clinical and biochemical characterization of a patient with newly diagnosed cblF disease and a follow-up on a 14-year-old patient. The new patient presented with elevation of propionyl carnitine found on a newborn screen. The patient was small for gestational age, exhibited dysmorphic features and mild developmental delay, and had trigonocephaly and ventricular septal defect. There was biochemical normalization and clinical improvement within 3 weeks of parenteral cobalamin treatment. The other patient presented at 4 weeks of life with failure to thrive and feeding difficulties. She was treated only with monthly cyanocobalamin shots. The patient has never experienced metabolic decompensation. She had short stature and was an average student with no behavioral concerns. Her metabolic derangements normalized after switching to weekly hydroxycobalamin. The available data on 14 patients with confirmed cblF disease suggest variability in age of onset, presenting symptoms, response to treatment, and long-term complications. Common clinical findings include small for gestational age, feeding difficulties, growth failure, and developmental delays. Some patients have congenital heart defects, dysmorphic features, and other congenital anomalies.
Ductal Closure With Paracetamol: A Surprising New Approach to Patent Ductus Arteriosus Treatment
Authors: Hammerman Cathy , Bin-Nun Alona , Markovitch Einat , Schimmel Michael S. , Kaplan Michael , Fink Daniel
Published: November 2011

Standard pharmacologic closure of the patent ductus arteriosus currently involves the administration of 1 of 2 cyclooxygenase inhibitors: either indomethacin or ibuprofen. However, both of these drugs can be associated with potentially significant adverse effects. We present here the cases of 5 preterm infants (gestational age: 26–32 weeks; postnatal age: 3–35 days) with large, hemodynamically significant patent ductus arteriosus who had either failed or had contraindications to ibuprofen therapy. Each of these infants was treated with off-label oral paracetamol (15 mg/kg per dose every 6 hours). Ductal closure was achieved within 48 hours in all the treated infants. No toxicity was observed.
Female Genital Cutting and the Health Care Provider’s Dilemma: A Case Study
Authors: Blanton Krista
Published: November 2011

According to the World Health Organization (WHO, 2010), 100–140 million women have been subjected to some form of female genital mutilation, also called female genital cutting (FGC). WHO (2010) defines FGC as any “procedure involving partial or total removal of the external female genitalia or other injury to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons” (para. 1). To provide culturally sensitive quality health care, providers must have a basic understanding of the types of FGC, the cultural implications associated with FGC, the physical and emotional sequelae of FGC, and the legal and ethical dilemmas surrounding FGC.
Community-Acquired Pneumonia in Primary Care
Authors: Fahey Ellen
Published: November 2011

Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) is a common serious illness in childhood. It occurs in previously healthy children who acquired the infection outside of the hospital. The etiology and treatment for CAP in children and adults differ greatly. In diagnosing CAP in pediatrics, the practitioner must know the most likely age-specific causes of pneumonia. Understanding the likely etiology will assist in the treatment and management of this illness. Diagnosis is often based on the patient’s history, physical exam, age, immune status, and judicious use of chest radiographs and laboratory tests. This case study highlights one of the many presentations of CAP in pediatric primary care. It reviews diagnosis, treatment, management, and complications of this illness based on the current era of vaccinations.
A System Change: Expansion of Primary and Secondary HIV Prevention Services in a Marginalized Community
Authors: Santucci Sandra
Published: November 2011

Community-based HIV testing services that provide immediate linkage of HIV-positive patients to health care and prevention services are imperative to control the increasing incidence and prevalence of HIV infection. Marginalized communities experience high rates of untreated HIV infection because of a lack of defined policies for referral to health care evaluations and prevention services. Long delays to confirmation of rapid-tested HIV seropositivity increase the probability that an infected individual will transmit the virus to others. A system change is necessary to close the gap between testing HIV positive and linkage of individuals living in the marginalized community to health care and prevention services in real time. This article demonstrates the necessity of and strategies for primary HIV prevention, which reduces the incidence of transmission, and secondary HIV prevention, which reduces the severity of the disease through early detection and intervention of the disease process.
Chloride transport and related processes at a municipal snow storage and disposal site
Authors: Exall Kirsten , Marsalek Jiri , Rochfort Quintin , Kydd Steven
Published: November 2011

The practice of used snow disposal has evolved from indiscriminate snow dumping to storage and meltwater management at engineered snow disposal sites. The Town of Richmond Hill, Ontario, Canada, constructed such a snow disposal site in 2003. Environment Canada and the Town of Richmond Hill formed a partnership to investigate the operation of the Richmond Hill Snow Storage Facility (RHSSF) with respect to snowmelt flows, fluxes of chemicals contained in snowmelt and direct effects on the receiving water. Results of chloride monitoring during the winter of 2007 are presented here. Roughly 16 tonnes of chloride passed through the snow disposal facility in 2007, which in itself reflects only a small proportion of the total salt applied to roads that winter. The highest concentrations of chloride were present in early melt, with 50% of the chloride released within the first 30% of the meltwater. The remainder of the chloride was released in lower concentration, higher volume melt later in the season. As expected, conductivity measurements at the outlet of the stormwater pond indicate that the meltwater management system served to delay and dilute the chloride released, but not to remove the pollutant.
Do Alternate Bacterial Indicators and Pathogens Increase after Centrifuge Dewatering of Anaerobically Digested Biosolids?
Authors: Chen Yen‐Chih , Murthy Sudhir N. , Hendrickson Donald , Higgins Matthew J.
Published: November 2011

The objectives of this research were to evaluate the potential for sudden increase and/or regrowth of alternative bacteria as either indicators or pathogens after dewatering of thermophilic and mesophilically digested biosolids. The results showed that, in general, for thermophilic processes, even when a statistically significant (p<0.05) sudden increase and regrowth occurred for fecal coliforms, Escherichia coli, and Enterococci, it did not occur for Salmonella or Aeromonas. For the mesophilic process evaluated, sudden increase did not occur, but regrowth occurred for fecal coliforms, E. coli, Enterococci, and Salmonella. The results have implications for Class A and B biosolids regulations, as both fecal coliform and Salmonella are part of the regulatory limits. The results also suggest that the public health risks are minimal, as a result of the potential sudden increase and regrowth that may occur.
Physico‐Chemical Processes
Authors: Afzal Atefeh , Pourrezaei Parastoo , Ding Ning , Moustafa Ahmed , Hwang Geelsu , Drzewicz Przemyslaw , Kim Eun‐Sik , Perez‐Estrada Leonidas A. , Ayala Pamela Chelme‐ , Liu Yang , El‐Din Mohamed Gamal
Published: November 2011

This review of the research literature published in 2010 deals with the physico‐chemical processes used for water and wastewater treatment. The review is divided into seven sections, including coagulation/flocculation, sorption processes, filtration, sedimentation, flotation, oxidation, and air stripping.
Biological Fixed Film
Authors: Wesley Mary Joy , Lerner Robert N. , Kim Eun Sik , Islam Shahinoor , Liu Yang
Published: November 2011

Literature published during the year 2010 on the topic of biological fixed film including biofilm and bioreactors for the purpose of water and wastewater treatment has been reviewed herein. Literature published regarding microbial fuel cells has also been included. The review has been organized into the following sections: biofilm formation, adhesion, quorum sensing, and consortia; techniques and analytic methods; biofilm reactors and modeling; and microbial fuel cells.
Automotive Wastes
Authors: Bari Md. Aynul , Kindzierski Warren B. , Lashaki Masoud Jahandar , Hashisho Zaher
Published: November 2011

A review of the literature published in 2010 on topics relating to automotive wastes is presented. This includes solid wastes from automotive bodies, tires, vehicular emissions and their influence to soil contamination as well as impact of alternative fuels. The potential toxicological and health risks associated with automotive wastes are also reviewed.
Pesticides and Herbicides
Authors: Buchanan Ian , Liang H.C. , Liu Zengkai , Razaviarani Vahid
Published: November 2011

This is a review of literature published in 2010 related to the presence of pesticides and herbicides in the environment. The review, divided into seven sections, includes toxicology, monitoring, ecology, modeling, risk assessment, management and minimization, and treatment strategies.
Hazardous Waste Treatment Technologies
Authors: Li Minghua , Mahmudov Rovshan , Huang C.P.
Published: November 2011

The article reviews the scientific literature published in 2010 on physical, chemical, and biological treatment of hazardous contaminants and environmental bioremediation.
Water uptake and solubility of Acroseal sealer in comparison with Apexit and AH Plus sealers in Hank’s solution
Authors: Grga Djurica , Dzeletovic Bojan , Miletic Vesna , Damjanov Marija
Published: November 2011

Introduction. The function of root canal fillings is to seal the root canal
system. The important physical property necessary for sealers to achieve this
is low solubility. However, any therapeutic effect of calcium hydroxide-based
sealers is dependent on the calcium hydroxide being in ionized form, which
implies that the material must be at least partly soluble. Objective. The
objective of our study was to compare weight changes of Acroseal and Apexit,
conventional calcium hydroxide-based sealer and AH Plus, epoxy-amine resin
sealer in Hank?s solution at different exposure times. Methods. The
standardized samples of each material were weighed and immersed in the Hank?s
solution for 1 h, 24 h, 96 h, 14 days and 28 days. After these exposure
times, they were removed, dried, and weighed again. Mean weight changes were
determined and the differences between sealers were analysed statistically
using a one-way ANOVA. Results. The highest differences in mass were observed
in Apexit, 1.52%, and were significantly different from Acroseal, 0.93%
(p<0.05) and AH Plus, 0.45% (p<0.05). There were no significant differences
between Acroseal and AH Plus, except for 96 h period. Conclusion. Under the
conditions of our study, it may be concluded that the Acroseal sealer
presented the behaviour more like epoxy-based material, AH Plus, than calcium
hydroxide sealer, Apexit.
Influence of depression on the quality of life in patients with chronic hepatitis C
Authors: Pavic Sladjana , Svirtlih Neda , Simonovic Jasmina , Delic Dragan
Published: November 2011

Introduction. Chronic hepatitis C reduces the quality of life in patients
causing fatigue, loss of self-confidence, reduced working capacity,
development of depression, emotional problems, and cognitive dysfunction.
Objective. The aim of the study was to identify the presence of depression in
patients with chronic hepatitis C, predicting factors for its expression, and
the impact of depression on the quality of life in these patients. Methods.
During the prospective study, we used the Hamilton depression scale to
investigate the presence of depression, generic 36-Item Short Form Health
Survey (SF-36) and Chronic Liver Diseases Questionnaire (CLDQ) to examine the
quality of life in 100 patients with chronic hepatitis C, 30 patients with
chronic hepatitis B, 30 patients with chronic liver disease non- viral
aetiology and 50 healthy persons. Results. A significantly higher presence of
depression, and cognitive dysfunction in patients with chronic hepatitis C
were noted as compared to the healthy individuals (p=0.00). In relation to
non-viral patients with chronic liver disease, depression was significantly
less present (p=0.004). Depression was rare in younger patients. The largest
number of patients with chronic hepatitis C was without depression. The
presence of depression caused deterioration of the physical and mental
components of the quality of life. Multivariate analysis showed that the most
significant positive predictive factor for the presence of depression was
married life (B=0.278; SE=0.094; p=0.004). Conclusion. The presence of
depression was more often in patients with chronic hepatitis C viral
infection compared to healthy population and was correlated with decline in
the quality of life. Depression is more pronounced in the elderly and
intravenous drug addicts. The lowest depression is expected in patients who
are not married.
Successful retrieval of an unexpanded coronary stent from the left main coronary artery during primary percutaneous coronary intervention
Authors: Salinger-Martinovic Sonja , Stojkovic Sinisa , Pavlovic Milan , Perisic Zoran , Obradovic Slobodan , Apostolovic Svetlana , Zivkovic Milan , Bozinovic Nenad
Published: November 2011

Introduction. Dislodgement and embolization of the new generation of coronary
stents before their deployment are rare but could constitute a very serious
complication. Case Outline. We report a case of a stent dislodgement into the
left main coronary artery during the primary coronary intervention of infarct
related left circumflex artery in a patient with acute myocardial infarction.
The dislodged and unexpanded bare-metal stent FlexMaster 3.0x19 mm (Abbot
Vascular) was stranded and bended in the left main coronary artery (LMCA),
probably by the tip of the guiding catheter, but stayed over the guidewire.
It was successfully retrieved using a low-profile Ryujin 1.25x15 balloon
catheter (Terumo) that was passed through the stent, inflated and then pulled
back into the guiding catheter. After that, the whole system was withdrawn
through the 6 F arterial sheath via the transfemoral approach. After repeated
cannulation via the 6F arterial sheath, additional BMW and ATW guidewires
were introduced into the posterolateral and obtuse marginal branches and a
bare-metal stent Driver (Medtronic Cardiovascular Inc) 3.0x18 mm was
implanted in the target lesion. Conclusion. Stent dislodgement is a rare but
potentially life-threatening complication of the percutaneous coronary
intervention. This incident occurring in the LMCA in particular during an
acute myocardial infarction requires to be urgently resolved. The avoidance
of rough manipulation with the guiding catheter and delivery system may help
in preventing this kind of complications.
Intellectual Disability Examinations and Social Context Variables among Patients of Low Socioeconomic Status
Authors: Pillay Anthony L. , Siyothula Evy-Terressah B.
Published: November 2011

The purpose was to investigate the demographic, clinical, and social context variables of clients seeking intellectual disability screening assessments, so as to promote planning and development of services in the KwaZulu-Natal midlands region of South Africa. Of 100 consecutive attendees seeking intellectual disability examinations at state mental health facilities, 70% were male and 70% were less than 18 years of age. 51% had Moderate or Severe Mental Retardation, 52% lived in homes with more than six people, and 52% in homes where nobody was employed. Of participants' families, 85% relied on social grants, 46% of attendees or caregivers wanted a social grant, 28% hoped for appropriate school placement, and 17% wanted both. Of the participants' households, 26% reported going without food for days. The results are discussed within the context of the regional social deprivation.
Vitamin D and Executive Function: A Preliminary Report
Authors: Hansen Anita L. , Bakke Lene , Dahl Lisbeth , Thayer Julian F.
Published: November 2011

The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between vitamin D levels and cognition, both executive and nonexecutive functions, in men incarcerated in a Norwegian prison. Participants were divided into high vitamin D and low vitamin D groups based on established criteria (high level ≥ 50 nmol/L; low level < 50 nmol/L). The mean vitamin D concentration was 69 ( SD = 12) and 38 ( SD = 9) nmol/L in the high-level group ( n = 14) and the low level group ( n = 11), respectively. Results revealed that the high vitamin D group had significantly more correct responses than the low vitamin D group on the executive function task. There was no difference between the groups on the nonexecutive function task. The reaction time data indicated that the high levels of correct responses in the high vitamin D group on the executive function tasks were not due to a speed-accuracy trade-off.
Comparison of the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales, Second Edition, and the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development, Third Edition
Authors: Scattone Dorothy , Raggio Donald J. , May Warren
Published: November 2011

The Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales, Second Edition (Vineland–II), and Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development, Third Edition (Bayley–III) were administered to 65 children between the ages of 12 and 42 months referred for developmental delays. Standard scores and age equivalents were compared across instruments. Analyses showed no statistical difference between Vineland-II ABC standard scores and cognitive levels obtained from the Bayley–III. However, Vineland–II Communication and Motor domain standard scores were significantly higher than corresponding scores on the Bayley–III. In addition, age equivalent scores were significantly higher on the Vineland–II for the fine motor subdomain. Implications for early intervention are discussed.
Studying Cognitive Adaptations in the Field of Sport: Broad or Narrow Transfer? A Comment on Allen, Fioratou, and McGeorge (2011)
Authors: Furley Philip , Memmert Daniel
Published: November 2011

This commentary addresses Allen, Fioratou, and McGeorge (2011), drawing attention to the important topic of how humans cognitively adapt to activities they engage in on a daily basis. We elaborate on the critique and suggestions made by Allen, et al. by reviewing research on the relationship of sport and cognition and argue that publication bias may be an issue when studying cognitive adaptations as a function of sport engagement. Implications for future research on the sport-cognition relationship are discussed.
Attack Efficacy in Volleyball: Elite Male Teams
Authors: Castro José , Souza Adriano , Mesquita Isabel
Published: November 2011

The goal was to identify performance indicators predicting attack efficacy in volleyball's game phase denominated Complex II, i.e., the counter-attack. 28 games from the 2007 Men's World Cup were analyzed. Attack efficacy was predicted by three primary variables: Attack tempo, Attack type, and Number of blockers. Power attack and Attack tempo 1 increased the probability of an Attack point. The supremacy of Attack tempo 3 and the high frequency of Two blockers and Three blockers reflected the difficulty of efficient attack during Complex II. Despite unfavourable conditions, attackers managed to execute Power attacks in the majority of the situations, and score a high frequency of Attack points.
Number of Players Who Gain Ball Possession as a Function of Basketball Mass among 9–11-Year-Old Male Players
Authors: Arias José L. , Argudo Francisco M. , Alonso José I.
Published: November 2011

This study analyzed whether a ball with a higher (540-g) or lower (440-g) mass than the regulation ball (485-g) resulted in a larger number of participants gaining ball possession during games. Prior studies have indicated that ball handling is facilitated by decreasing the mass of the ball. It was assumed that a greater number of children gaining possession of the ball indicated greater ease of use and more control. Thus, the hypothesis was that the number of participants who gained ball possession would increase when using a ball of lower mass. The participants were 54 boys from six youth basketball teams. Participants played four games with each one of the three different balls and the number of possessions was calculated using videos of each game. The hypothesis was only partially supported: the number of participants who gained possession with the regular ball was similar to that with the 440-g ball and with the 540-g ball, but a greater number of participants gained possession with the 440-g ball in comparison to the 540-g ball. This result suggests balls that differ by more than 65 g may affect actual game outcomes.
Effects of Long-Term Blindness on Preparatory EMG Modulation in Humans Performing Landing Movements
Authors: Magalhães Fernando Henrique , Goroso Daniel Gustavo
Published: November 2011

To investigate the long-term effect of blindness on the task of leaping down to a lower landing surface, five blind individuals were compared with 10 sighted individuals who performed landing movements with and without sight. Participants performed six consecutive drop-landings from four different heights, during which the prelanding modulation of EMG timing and amplitude in four lower-limb muscles were recorded. Analysis showed that blind individuals showed specific prelanding EMG modulation, suggesting that long-term dependence on somesthetic and vestibular cues leads to different preparatory measures for vertical falls.
How Task Experience Influences Students' Performance Expectancies: The Role of Certainty
Authors: Dickhäuser Oliver , Reinhard Marc-André , Englert Chris
Published: November 2011

The importance of performance expectancies for predicting behavior has long been highlighted in research on expectancy-value models. These models do not take into account that expectancies may vary in terms of their certainty. The study tested the following predictions: task experience leads to a higher certainty of expectancies; certainty and mean expectancies are empirically distinguishable; and expectancies held with high certainty are more accurate for predicting performance. 273 Grade 8 students reported their performance expectancy and the certainty of expectation with regard to a mathematics examination immediately before and after the examination. Actual grades on the examination were also assessed. The results supported the predictions: there was an increase in certainty between the two times of measurement; expectancies and certainty were unrelated at both times of measurement; and for students initially reporting higher certainty, the accuracy of the performance expectancy (i.e., the relation between expectancy and performance) was higher than for students reporting lower certainty. Given lower certainty, the accuracy increased after the students had experience with the examination. The data indicate that it may be useful to include certainty as an additional variable in expectancy-value models.
Modularity and Hierarchical Organization of Action Programs in Children's Acquisition of Graphic Skills
Authors: Manoel Edison de J. , Dantas Luiz , Gimenez Roberto , de Oliveira Dalton Lustosa
Published: November 2011

The organization of actions is based on modules in memory as a result of practice, easing the demand of performing more complex actions. If this modularization occurs, the elements of the module must remain invariant in new tasks. To test this hypothesis, 35 children, age 10 yr., practiced a graphic criterion task on a digital tablet and completed a complex graphic task enclosing the previous one. Total movement and pause times to draw the figure indicated skill acquisition. A module was identified by the variability of relative timing, pause time, and sequencing. Total movement to perform the criterion task did not increase significantly when it was embedded in the more complex task. Modularity was evidenced by the stability of relative timing and pause time and sequencing. The spatial position of new elements did not perturb the module, so the grammar of action may still have been forming.
Mismatch Negativity and P300 to Behaviorally Perceptible and Imperceptible Frequency and Intensity Contrasts
Authors: White L. , Stuart A.
Published: November 2011

Mismatch negativity and the P300 have been investigated as electrophysiological indices of behavioral auditory discrimination of duration. Using an oddball paradigm, responses were evoked to stimuli that had been behaviorally demonstrated to be either perceptible or imperceptible. The results indicated P300 events were present with the perceptible contrast but absent for the imperceptible contrast with all participants, while mismatch negativities were present in approximately 80 and 20% of participants to the perceptible and imperceptible contrasts, respectively. The present study extended the findings by applying the same paradigm to the discrimination of spectral and amplitude contrasts. 10 young adults with normal hearing were participants. Assuming that auditory assessment should involve representation and processing in all acoustic domains (i.e., temporal/duration, spectral/frequency and amplitude/intensity), the effects seen with temporal contrasts were predicted to be similar for spectral and amplitude contrasts. The findings generally illustrated that the P300 was more accurate than the mismatch negativity in reflecting behavioral discrimination. Together, these studies challenge the use of mismatch negativity as an electrophysiological correlate for behavioral discrimination of auditory perceptible contrasts.
Nano-characterization of Jagged-1-educated dendritic cells
Authors: Xing Feiyue , Wang Jiongkun , Fang Zhiyuan , Hu Mingqian , Yu Yu , Chen Guoliang , Liu Jing
Published: November 2011

Jagged-1-educated dendritic cells (DCs) are of distinct phenotypes different from Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-educated DCs. However, to date, little is known as to nano-features of Jagged-1-educated DCs. In this study, nanostructure of Jagged-1-educated DCs was observed through atomic force microscopy. Our results showed that the volume, surface area and width of Jagged-1-educated DCs, and the number of protrusion, pseudopodia and lamellapodia on the surface of Jagged-1-educated DCs were significantly more than those of GM-CSF-induced DCs, but less than those of LPS-educated DCs. Compared with GM-CSF-induced DCs, the roughness on the surface of Jagged-1-educated DCs was greatly increased, similar to LPS-educated DCs, but the particle size and number of them on the membrane were markedly less than the latter. The change of DC nanostructure caused by Jagged-1 was abrogated with N-[N-(3,5-difluorophenacetyl)-l-alanyl]-S-phenylglycinet-butyl ester, a γ-secretase inhibitor of Notch signaling pathway. Compared to LPS-educated DCs, Jagged-1-educated DCs highly expressed NICD, Deltex-1 and Hes-1 proteins, moderately produced IL-12, but not IFN-γ, and the level of CD40 molecules on the surface of them was much lower, suggesting that Jagged-1-educated DCs are in a semi-mature status and may have unique functions distinguished from LPS-educated DCs.
Individualized Education Program Team Decisions: A Preliminary Study of Conversations, Negotiations, and Power
Authors: Ruppar Andrea L. , Gaffney Janet S.
Published: November 2011

Given the centrality of the Individualized Education Program (IEP) to services for students with disabilities, the decision-making process during the IEP meeting deserves attention in research and implementation. In this case study, IEP team decision-making is examined as a socially situated practice. Transcripts of an initial evaluation and IEP meeting and subsequent interviews with team members were analyzed in concert with the pertinent documents to understand the decision-making process and outcomes for a 5-year-old boy. The student's diagnosis, placement, and goal setting resulted in discussion and were pursued in postmeeting interviews. Further analysis was conducted regarding the proportion of interactions among participants. Results indicate that the turn-taking structure of the IEP meeting, the IEP template, and communication prior to the meeting influenced the decisions, and individual team members held opinions that they did not voice during the meeting.
Expanding the Catalytic Repertoire of DNAzymes by Modified Nucleosides
Authors: Hollenstein Marcel
Published: November 2011

Modified nucleoside triphosphates (dNTPs) are a versatile platform for the generation of high-density functionalized nucleic acids. The enzymatic polymerization of dNTPs allows the introduction of sensible functionalities that might not be compatible with the standard automated synthesis
of oligonucleotides. Their application to in vitro selections, an elegant chemical approach to Darwinian evolution, delivers modified aptamers and catalytic nucleic acids with potentially enhanced properties. This review article highlights some recent synthetic examples of dNTPs bearing
functionalities that are either found in the active site of protein enzymes or have been employed in organocatalysis and further underscores their usefulness in the development of some modified catalytic nucleic acids with special emphasis on M2+-independent RNA-cleaving DNAzymes.
Don't Worry, be Active: Positive Affect and Habitual Physical Activity
Authors: Pasco Julie A. , Jacka Felice N. , Williams Lana J. , Brennan Sharon L. , Leslie Eva , Berk Michael
Published: November 2011

Objective: The aim of ths study was to examine the association between habitual physical activity and positive and negative affect.

Method: This cross-sectional study included 276 women aged 20 +, from the Geelong Osteoporosis Study. Habitual physical activity and other lifestyle exposures were assessed by questionnaire, concurrent with anthropometric assessments. Physical activity was categorized as very active, moderately active or sedentary. Positive and negative affect scores were derived from the validated 20 item Positive and Negative Affect Schedule (PANAS) self-report and were categorized into tertiles.

Results: There was a pattern of lower positive affect scores for lower levels of physical activity. With very active as the reference category, the odds for having a positive affect score in the highest tertile were sequentially lower for those who were moderately active (OR = 0.53, 95%CI 0.28–1.01) and sedentary (OR = 0.28, 95%CI 0.10–0.75). Associations were sustained after adjusting for body mass index and polypharmacy (OR = 0.50, 95%CI 0.26–0.96 and OR = 0.25, 95%CI 0.09–0.72, respectively). These associations were not explained by age, negative affect score or other exposures. No association was detected between physical activity and negative affect scores.

Conclusions: This study reports that higher positive affect scores, encompassing emotions such as interest, excitement, enthusiasm and alertness, are associated with higher levels of habitual physical activity. These observations warrant further investigations into possible mechanistic interplay between neurobiological and psychosocial factors that underpin this association.
Justifying Citizen Political Participation in Norwegian Political Education
Authors: Børhaug Kjetil
Published: November 2011

Declining adolescent political participation means that political education has become a pressing public and political issue. In response, much attention is being paid to the way in which political education offers meaningful reasons for individual political participation. Critical textbook analysis may help us understand how political education affects participation. To what extent do textbooks explicitly present justifications for political participation? What kinds of justification are offered? This article analyzes Norwegian social studies textbooks, and concludes that justifications of adolescent political participation are central. Justifications include the individual pursuit of preferences, individual duty in a "contract" with the state, and identities. However, these justifications are also questionable, for they are generally either individualistic or avoid real political movements.
Writing Syrian History While Propagating Arab Nationalism
Authors: Bolliger Monika
Published: November 2011

This article argues that Syrian history textbooks promote the formation of Syrian national identity, although their explicit objective is to propagate Arab nationalism. Their authors' attempt to construct the history of an imagined Arab nation encompassing the whole of the Arab world in fact tells the story of different nation-states. Syrian students are therefore confronted with rival geographical spheres of national imagination. Changes in the new textbooks under Bashar al-Asad reveal increased Syrian patriotism, a will to comply with globalization, and attempts to maintain Arab nationalism.
Factors affecting surgical outcome of myringoplasty
Authors: Sarker Md Zakaria , Ahmed Mesbauddin , Patwary Khabiruddin , Islam Rabiul , Joarder Abul Hasnat
Published: November 2011

Introduction: This prospective study was carried out to evaluate the factors that affect the graft take rate as well as hearing improvement after myringoplasty. Method: In this study 60 patients were divided into several groups based on 4 factors like size of perforation (small, medium and large), site of perforation (anterior central, posterior central and central malleolar), Condition of the middle ear (dry & wet) and surgical approach (post auricular and transcanal). Surgical outcome of myringoplasty was measured on the basis of graft take rate and post operative hearing improvement. Results: Size of the perforation affects the graft take rate and post operative hearing gain. Post operative closure of air-bone gap was 10.45 dB, 19.21 dB and 18.86 dB in small, medium and large perforation respectively. Hearing gain was greater after closure of large perforation than the smaller one. Graft take rate was 100%, 82% and 72.73% in small, medium and large perforation respectively. Graft take rate was greater in small perforation than other. Site of perforation also affects surgical outcome after myringoplasty. Graft take rate in anterior central, posterior central and central malleolar perforation was 66.67%, 82.25% and 83.79% respectively. Graft take rate was higher in central malleolar perforation than anterior central perforation. Post operative air-bone gap closure after myringoplasty was 15.31 dB, 12.38 dB and 20.89 dB in anterior central, posterior central and central malleolar perforation respectively. Post operative improvement of hearing was greater in central malleolar perforation. Condition of middle ear at the time of operation also affects the surgical outcome. Graft take rate was 89.36% in dry perforation and 53.85% in wet perforation. Graft take rate was greater in dry perforation. Closure of air-bone gap was 18.23 dB and 7.8 dB in dry and wet perforation respectively. Hearing improvement was greater in dry perforation. No significant difference was found in post-aural and transcanal approach. Conclusion: From this study we concluded that site and size of tympanic membrane perforation and condition of middle ear effects surgical outcome after myringoplasty. Key words: Myringoplasty; hearing improvement; graft take rate. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjo.v17i2.8846 BJO 2011; 17(2): 82-87
Effect of anterior nasal packing on middle ear pressure
Authors: Bhuiyan Mohammad Rokanuddin , Ali Mohammad Idrish , Johora Fatema , Rumi Sk Nurul Fattah , Haque Nazmul , Abdullah M
Published: November 2011

Objectives: To assess the effect of anterior nasal packing on middle ear pressure. Methods: This cross-sectional study was carried out in the Department of Otolaryngology – Head & Neck surgery, Sir Salimullah Medical College & Mitford Hospital, Dhaka for the period of one year from July 2008 to June 2009. Thirty patients were selected purposively. Results: Thirty patients were studied. Minimum age 14 and maximum age 48 years, 50% patients were 3rd decade, 66.66% were male, male female ratio was 2:1 nasal obstruction was 100% of the patients 30% patients were nasal septum deviation, 30% patients DNS with nasal deformity, 30% patients were underwent septoplasty, 36.66% patients had septoplasty with submucosal diathering 26.66% were endoscopic sinus surgery and 6.66% were septorhinoplasty. The prepack middle ear presurre range from -50 daPa to 0 daPa were maximum followed by 0 daPa to +50 daPa, minimum -65 daPa 4 ears showed presume -100 daPa. Three ears were middle ear pressure between -150 daPa to -100 daPa. 2nd post operatively just before pack removal abnormal middle ear pressure was seen in 26 ears (43.33%) after 5 days abnormal pressure was found in 30 ears. Three ears (75%) out of 4 ears having antrochoanal polyp showed no improvement even five days after pack removed. Conclusion: Chronic nasal obstruction seems to have a detrimental effect on middle ear pressure, which may not return to normal even after removal of chronic obstruction. It appears from this study that there might be some permanent change in peritubal nasopharyngeal mucosa due to chronic nasal obstruction, which needs to be proved histopathologically. Lymphatic stasis at peritubal plexus of lymphatic channels and veins appears to be the causes of lymph oedema following nasal packing. Anterior nasal packing causes reversible negative middle ear pressure which return to normal 5 days after pack removal. Key Words: Anterior nasal pack; middle ear pressure DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjo.v17i2.8853 BJO 2011; 17(2): 125-131
Parotid abscess with facial nerve paralysis in a young healthy female
Authors: Mohamad Irfan , Ahmad M Zaki , Mohamad Hazama
Published: November 2011

Introduction: Benign parotid lesion is rarely associated with facial nerve paralysis. If it happens, it is mainly due to the compression effect on the nerve and usually will recover after surgical intervention. Few cases of parotid abscess which involved facial nerve, mainly in elderly have been reported. Case report: In our case, we would like to report a case of parotid abscess in a young healthy female. The abscess has extended to parapharyngeal space and complicated by facial nerve paralysis. Conclusion: Conservative management was implemented while waiting for the natural recovery of facial nerve paralysis in cases of parotid abscess. These included gold-weight lid implant for corneal protection.. Despite of spontaneous recovery, there were cases the paralyzed facial nerve remained even after 6 months. Key words: Parotid abscess; facial paralysis. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjo.v17i2.8858 BJO 2011; 17(2): 147-149
Spherical Agglomeration of Naproxan by Solvent Change Method
Authors: Kulkarni Parthasarathi Keshavarao , Dixit Mudit , Jain Achin
Published: November 2011

Naproxen, an anti-inflammatory drug, exhibits poor water solubility and flow properties. Spherical agglomerates were prepared by solvent change method. Solvent composition for spherical agglomeration was determined by constructing ternary diagram. Crystallization medium used for spherical agglomerates of naproxen consisted of tetra-hydro-furan (good solvent); water (poor solvent); isopropyl acetate (bridging liquid) in the ratio of 29:61:10, respectively. Spherical agglomerates were characterized by differential scanning calorimetry, infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffractometry and scanning electron microscopy. Micromeritic and dissolution behavior studies were carried out. Process variables such as amount of bridging liquid, stirring time and duration of stirring were optimized. Dissolution profile of the spherical agglomerates was compared with pure sample and recrystallized sample. Spherical agglomerates exhibited decreased crystallinity and improved micromeritic properties. The dissolution of the spherical agglomerates was not improved compared with pure sample because the dissolution of naproxen dependent on particle size or surface area.   Key words: Spherical agglomerates; Naproxen; Crystallinity; Dissolution.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/sjps.v4i1.8860 SJPS 2011; 4(1): 1-8
Effect of Proteinase-K on Genomic DNA Extraction from Gram-positive Strains
Authors: Shahriar Mohammad , Haque Md Rashidul , Kabir Shaila , Dewan Irin , Bhuyian Mohiuddin Ahmed
Published: November 2011

Direct extraction of DNA from natural environment and clinical samples has become a useful alternative for the phylogenetic identification and in situ detection of individual microbial cells without cultivation. In this study, three different Gram positive microorganisms (B. cereus, B. subtilis, and S. aureus) were chosen for genomic DNA extraction. High salt SDS (Sodium Dodesyl Sulfate) based extraction method was followed to extract genomic DNA with addition of three different lysis protocols to observe the effect of proteinase-K on total genomic DNA yield, lysis steps were carried with SDS, SDS with 3 μl proteinase-K and SDS with 6μl proteinase-K. High molecular weight intact DNA bands were observed only for Bacillus subtilis when the extraction procedure was carried out in presence of SDS, SDS with proteinase-K (3μl) and SDS with increased amount of proteinase-K (6μl). In presence of SDS and increased amount of proteinase-K (6μl) the mean value of DNA concentration for Bacillus cereus, Bacillus subtilis, and Staphylococcus aureus were found to be 1.53±0.15, 1.36±0.10 and 1.65±0.10 μg/μl respectively. However, in absence of proteinase-K, the mean values of DNA concentration were found to be decreased (1.28±0.10, 1.34±0.15, 1.23±0.10 μg/μl for B. cereus, B. subtilis, and S. aureus respectively) for all these stains. Although in case of B. subtilis the overall effect of proteinase-K was not found to be significant in terms of DNA concentration and DNA band intensity, however, for B. cereus, and S. aureus sharp decrease in total extracted DNA concentration was observed suggesting the increased lysis effect of proteinase-K on the thick peptidoglycan layer of Gram-positive cell wall such as B. cereus, and S. aureus.   Key words: Extraction; Genomic DNA; Lysis buffer; Gram positive organism. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/sjps.v4i1.8867 SJPS 2011; 4(1): 53-57