bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Monoamine oxidase A is highly expressed by the human corpus luteum of pregnancy
Authors: Takao Yumi , Fujiwara Hiroshi , Yoshioka Shinya , Fujii Shingo , Ueda Masamichi
Published: May 2008

To investigate the physiological characteristics of the corpus luteum (CL) of pregnancy, we raised a mAb, human corpus luteum (HCL)-4, against human luteal cells obtained from CL of pregnancy. The affinity-purified antigen from human CL of pregnancy or placenta using HCL-4 was a 61 kDa protein. The partial amino acid sequence of the antigenic protein was identical to that of human monoamine oxidase A (MAOA, EC1.4.3.4). MAOA has been shown to catabolize catecholamines that were reported to regulate luteal function in CL and vasoconstriction in various organs. Immunohistochemistry using HCL-4 mAb showed that MAOA was intensely expressed on large luteal cells and moderately expressed on small luteal cells in the CL of pregnancy. In the CL of menstrual cycle, MAOA was weakly detected on large luteal cells but not detected at all on small luteal cells. Western blotting analysis confirmed the high expression of MAOA in CL of pregnancy. Northern blot analysis also showed the expression of MAOA mRNA in human CL, and showed that its expression was higher in CL of pregnancy than in CL of menstrual cycle. The increased expression of MAOA in the CL of pregnancy suggests the contribution of MAOA to the function of the CL of pregnancy.
Caput epididymitis but not orchitis was induced by vasectomy in a murine model of experimental autoimmune orchitis
Authors: Qu Ning , Terayama Hayato , Naito Munekazu , Ogawa Yuki , Hirai Shuichi , Kitaoka Miyuki , Yi Shuang-Qin , Itoh Masahiro
Published: May 2008

Immunization of mice with viable syngeneic testicular germ cells (TGC) alone can induce autoimmune responses against autoantigens of both round and elongating spermatids, resulting in the development of experimental autoimmune orchitis (EAO). Histological lesions in this EAO model without an adjuvant are characterized by lymphocytic infiltration into the testes, spermatogenic disturbance, and a complete lack of epididymitis. In this study, we investigated the effects of vasectomy (Vx) on TGC-induced EAO expecting that Vx augments the severity of testicular inflammation in A/J mice. The results showed that mice receiving Vx alone exhibited no significant inflammatory cell response in either the testes or epididymides, and mice receiving shamVx+TGC immunization had EAO with no epididymitis. In sharp contrast, no EAO was found in the testes of any mice receiving Vx+TGC immunization. Instead, caput epididymitis involving CD4+T cells, CD8+T cells, B cells, and macrophages were induced in them with striking elevation of the tissue levels of bothIL6andIL10mRNA. Furthermore, serum autoantibodies induced by shamVx+TGC immunization were reactive with both round (immature) and elongating (mature) spermatids; however, those induced by Vx+TGC immunization were specific to acrosomes of mature spermatids and spermatozoa. These unexpected results indicate that Vx may induce the mode by which autoreactive lymphocytes gain access to TGC autoantigens in the epididymides, leading to autoimmune responses against the autoantigens of mature rather than immature spermatids.
Human Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells Accelerate Recovery of Acute Renal Injury and Prolong Survival in Mice
Authors: Morigi Marina , Introna Martino , Imberti Barbara , Corna Daniela , Abbate Mauro , Rota Cinzia , Rottoli Daniela , Benigni Ariela , Perico Norberto , Zoja Carla , Rambaldi Alessandro , Remuzzi Andrea , Remuzzi Giuseppe
Published: May 2008

Transplantation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSC) or stromal cells from rodents has been identified as a strategy for renal repair in experimental models of acute kidney injury (AKI), a highly life-threatening clinical setting. The therapeutic potential of BM-MSC of human origin has not been reported so far. Here, we investigated whether human BM-MSC treatment could prevent AKI induced by cisplatin and prolong survival in an immunodeficient mouse model. Results showed that human BM-MSC infusion decreased proximal tubular epithelial cell injury and ameliorated the deficit in renal function, resulting in reduced recipient mortality. Infused BM-MSC became localized predominantly in peritubular areas and acted to reduce renal cell apoptosis and to increase proliferation. BM-MSC also induced protection against AKI-related peritubular capillary changes consisting of endothelial cell abnormalities, leukocyte infiltration, and low endothelial cell and lumen volume density as assessed by morphometric analysis. These findings indicate that human MSC of bone marrow origin hold potential to prolong survival in AKI and should be considered for testing in a clinical trial.

Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest is found at the end of this article.
Hematopoietic Stem Cells Regulate Mesenchymal Stromal Cell Induction into Osteoblasts Thereby Participating in the Formation of the Stem Cell Niche
Authors: Jung Younghun , Song Junhui , Shiozawa Yusuke , Wang Jingcheng , Wang Zhuo , Williams Benjamin , Havens Aaron , Schneider Abraham , Ge Chunxi , Franceschi Renny T. , McCauley Laurie K. , Krebsbach Paul H. , Taichman Russell S.
Published: May 2008

Crosstalk between hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) and the cells comprising the niche is critical for maintaining stem cell activities. Yet little evidence supports the concept that HSCs regulate development of the niche. Here, the ability of HSCs to directly regulate endosteal development was examined. Marrow was isolated 48 hours after “stressing” mice with a single acute bleed or from control nonstressed animals. “Stressed” and “nonstressed” HSCs were cocultured with bone marrow stromal cells to map mesenchymal fate. The data suggest that HSCs are able to guide mesenchymal differentiation toward the osteoblastic lineage under basal conditions. HSCs isolated from animals subjected to an acute stress were significantly better at inducing osteoblastic differentiation in vitro and in vivo than those from control animals. Importantly, HSC-derived bone morphogenic protein 2 (BMP-2) and BMP-6 were responsible for these activities. Furthermore, significant differences in the ability of HSCs to generate a BMP response following stress were noted in aged and in osteoporotic animals. Together these data suggest a coupling between HSC functions and bone turnover as in aging and in osteoporosis. For the first time, these results demonstrate that HSCs do not rest passively in their niche. Instead, they directly participate in bone formation and niche activities.

Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest is found at the end of this article.
Hoxb1 Controls Cell Fate Specification and Proliferative Capacity of Neural Stem and Progenitor Cells
Authors: Gouti Mina , Gavalas Anthony
Published: May 2008

The directed differentiation of embryonic stem cells (ESCs) into neural stem cells (NSCs) of specific identities and the identification of endogenous pathways that may mediate expansion of NSCs are fundamental goals for the treatment of degenerative disorders and trauma of the nervous system. We report that timely induction of a Hoxb1 transgene in ESC-derived NSCs resulted in the specification of NSCs toward a hindbrain-specific identity through the activation of a rhombomere 4-specific genetic program and the repression of anterior neural identity. This change was accompanied by changes in signaling pathways that pattern the dorsoventral (DV) axis of the nervous system and concomitant changes in the expression of DV neural progenitor markers. Furthermore, Hoxb1 mediated the maintenance and expansion of posterior neural progenitor cells. Hoxb1+ cells kept proliferating upon mitogen withdrawal and became transiently amplifying progenitors instead of terminally differentiating. This was partially attributed to Hoxb1-dependent activation of the Notch signaling pathway and Notch-dependent STAT3 phosphorylation at Ser 727, thus linking Hox gene function with maintenance of active Notch signaling and the JAK/STAT pathway. Thus, timely expression of specific Hox genes could be used to establish NSCs and neural progenitors of distinct posterior identities. ESC-derived NSCs have a mixed DV identity that is subject to regulation by Hox genes. Finally, these findings set the stage for the elucidation of molecular pathways involved in the expansion of posterior NSCs and neural progenitors.

Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest is found at the end of this article.
In vivo imaging of molecular targets and their function in endocrinology
Authors: Burdette Joanna E
Published: May 2008

Imaging is one of the fastest growing fields of study. New technologies and multimodal approaches are increasing the application of imaging to determine molecular targets and functional processes in vivo. The identification of a specific target, transporter, or biological process using imaging has introduced major breakthroughs to the field of endocrinology primarily utilizing computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, ultrasonography, positron emission tomography, single-photon emission computed tomography, and optical imaging. This review provides a general background to the specific developments in imaging that pertains to in vivo function and target identification in endocrine-based diseases.
Assessing the Prevalence of Depression among Individuals with Diabetes in a Medicaid Managed-Care Program
Authors: Kahn Lindas , Fox Chester H. , McIntyre Roger S. , Tumiel-Berhalter Laurene , Berdine Diane E. , Lyle Heather
Published: May 2008

Objectives:

To determine the prevalence of self-reported depression symptoms among diabetic individuals enrolled in Gold Choice, a Medicaid managed care organization specifically for people with mental health and/or substance abuse diagnoses; and to assess the sensitivity and specificity of individuals' self-report with encounter data.

Methods:

The 9-item depression scale of the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) was mailed to 454 Gold Choice members in Western New York diagnosed with diabetes; and 249 completed PHQ-9 forms were returned (55% response rate). The PHQ-9 forms were compared to primary care encounter data to determine whether the respondents had been diagnosed with depression. Descriptive and inferential statistical analysis was undertaken.

Results:

The majority (56%) of individuals in the sample screened positive for depression (PHQ-9 ≥ 10), and half (49%) did not have evidence of a diagnosis in their encounter data. The percentage of those diagnosed with depression rose with increasing PHQ-9 severity levels, with 63% of individuals with the most severe depression (PHQ-9 ≥ 20) having a diagnosis. This trend was statistically significant, confirmed by independent sample t-tests and chi-square tests. The sensitivity of the PHQ-9 was moderate (66%), as was the specificity (52%).

Conclusions:

The results of this study suggest that depressive disorders may be under-recognized and under-treated amongst individuals with diabetes in the primary care setting. Half (51%) of those with PHQ-9 scores ≥ 10 had depression diagnoses, suggesting poor compliance rates and/or a need for therapy reassessment.
Benefits of Consumer Psychoeducation: A Pilot Program in South Africa
Authors: Seedat Soraya , Haskis Anne , Stein Dan J.
Published: May 2008

Objective:

Previous studies have indicated that patient adherence to antidepressant treatment is unsatisfactory. There is, however, little published data on adherence in the South African context. In this pilot study we explore the possible benefits of a consumer psychoeducation program.

Method:

First, drop-out rates during the first four months of paroxetine treatment were surveyed in patients participating in a psychoeducational program focused on depression and its treatment. Practitioners were also surveyed about their perceptions of the program. Second, drop-out rates during the first four months of paroxetine treatment were estimated from a pharmacy database of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) prescriptions in South Africa.

Results:

Patients who participated in a psychoeducational program demonstrated comparatively lower drop-out rates during treatment compared with drop-out rates in patients on paroxetine (and other SSRIs) obtained from a national pharmacy database. Improved adherence on the psychoeducational program was attributed to an increased understanding of depression and the need to take medication, a realization that patients are not alone (i.e., depression is a widespread problem) and a better understanding and acceptance of the possible side-effects of medication. Both practitioners and patients were positive about their experience of the program and 80% of doctors judged the program to be very useful.

Conclusion:

Drop-out rates during SSRI treatment in South Africa appear to be unacceptably high, whether or not patients receive concomitant benzodiazepines. Psychoeducational programs may prove valuable in increasing adherence to treatment regimes.
Multiple Episodes in Children and Adolescents with Bipolar Disorder: Comorbidity, Hospitalization, and Treatment (Data from a Cohort of 8,129 Patients of a National Managed Care Database)
Authors: Castilla-Puentes Ruby
Published: May 2008

Objective:

The purpose of this study was to delineate the prevalence, demographic characteristics, comorbidity, hospitalization, and medication use of a large cohort of patients with and without multiple episodes per year. We hypothesized that children and adolescents with multiple episodes per year would have a higher comorbidity and require more hospitalizations and pharmacological treatment than their counterparts without multiple episodes.

Methods:

Analysis was conducted on a cohort of 8,129 children and adolescents patients (≤ 18 y.o.) with bipolar disorders (BD), from the Integrated Healthcare Information Services (IHCIS) identified from June 30, 2000 to July 1, 2003. Demographics variables, type of hospitalization, and psychotropic medication used in the year of follow-up were compared between children and adolescents with multiple and those without multiple episodes per year.

Results:

Included were 58 patients with multiple episodes (defined as: ≥ 4 or more reports of inpatient treatment for any affective disorders per year) and 8,071 without multiple episodes. Children and adolescents with multiple episodes versus those without multiple episodes were differentiated as follows: more comorbid attention deficit disorder (ADD) (80.9% versus 29.4%) (χ2=70.61, df=1, p < 0.0001); higher rate of hospital admission for depression (12.1% vs. 1.8%, χ2=27.86, df=1, p < 0.0001); for other psychiatric conditions (48.3% vs. 11.2, χ2=74.47, df=1, p < 0.0001) and for medical conditions (22.4% vs. 3.9%, χ2=46.26, df=1, p < 0.0001). Patients with multiple episodes per year were more likely than those without multiple episodes to be given mood stabilizers (91.4% vs. 60.3%, χ2=22.02, df=1, p < 0.0001), antidepressants (79.3% vs. 59.2%, χ2=8.82, df=1, p=.0003), and antipsychotics (89.7% vs. 45.8%, χ2=42.91, df=1, p < 0.0001). The use of stimulants did not differ between the two groups (24.1% vs. 23.0%), χ2=0.02, df=1, p=0.96).

Conclusions:

Our findings support previous studies demonstrating that children and adolescents with multiple episodes per year present a higher comorbidity and require more hospitalizations and pharmacological treatment than those without multiple episodes. The diagnosis and treatment of children and adolescents with BD will have to take into account the high comorbidity of ADD mainly in children and adolescents with multiple episodes. Future prospective studies will help to better characterize the impact of multiple episodes in the course of pediatric BD and facilitate appropriate treatment strategies.
Serotonergic Antidepressants and Linezolid: A Retrospective Chart Review and Presentation of Cases
Authors: Lorenz Raymond A. , Vandenberg Amy M. , Canepa Elizabeth A.
Published: May 2008

Objective:

To report the results from a retrospective chart review looking at the combination of linezolid and serotonergic antidepressants and to report two cases of serotonin syndrome which were identified at our hospital.

Case Summary:

During the retrospective chart review one case of serotonin syndrome was identified. A 65-year-old female was receiving escitalopram for the treatment of depression prior to admission. Linezolid therapy was initiated on admission and two days later the patient had a tonic-clonic seizure. Escitalopram was discontinued and the patient did not have any further seizure activity. In a second case, a 37-year-old male was receiving citalopram during hospitalization and was started on concomitant linezolid. The patient had myoclonus and was observed to be tremulous throughout therapy with linezolid. Ten days after discontinuation oflinezolid the patient continued to have symptoms until the withdrawal of citalopram. The Naranjo probability scale scores the first case as possibly related and the second case as probably related to the combination.

Discussion:

It has been well documented in the literature that the combination of linezolid and serotonergic antidepressants may cause serotonin syndrome. In this retrospective chart review only one patient of 53 (1.8%) had symptoms highly suggestive of serotonin syndrome. A second patient continued to have symptoms of serotonin syndrome even after withdrawal of linezolid.

Conclusions:

This retrospective review and subsequent case reports confirm the rare, but serious, potential of serotonin syndrome associated with the combination of linezolid and serotonergic antidepressants.
Prevalence of Metabolic Syndrome among Inpatients with Schizophrenia
Authors: Boke Omer , Aker Servet , Sarisoy Gokhan , Saricicek Esin Boke , Sahin Ahmet Rifat
Published: May 2008

Objective:

Cardiovascular disease is one of the most prevalent factors responsible for excess mortality in schizophrenia. Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is associated with the development of coronary heart disease and diabetes mellitus. The aim in this cross-sectional study was to assess the prevalence of MetS in schizophrenic Turkish inpatients.

Method:

The study was conducted from January 2006 to June 2006, and included 231 patients with schizophrenia. All participants were enrolled from inpatients attending the Samsun Mental Health Hospital psychiatry clinic. All subjects were aged between 18 and 65 and met the DSM IV criteria for schizophrenia. MetS was taken as central obesity (defined as waist circumference: men ≥ 94 cm, women ≥ 80 cm) and meeting ≥ 2 of the following abnormalities described by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF): a serum triglyceride level > 150 mg/dL, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol < 40 mg/dL in men and < 50 mg/dL in women, blood pressure ≥ 130/85 mm Hg, and a fasting serum glucose level ≥ 100 mg/d/L.

Results:

The study group consisted of 174 male and 57 female patients. Mean age was 38.5 ± 10.5 and mean duration of illness was 15.76 ± 9.95 years. The overall prevalence of MetS diagnosed according to the IDF criteria was 32.0% ( n=74) and was higher in females (61.4%) than in males (22.4%; p=0.0001). In logistic regression analysis the last step of the regression model was gender (B=1.70, p=0.0001, OR=5.50, 95% Cl=2.90–10.45).

Conclusion:

This study shows that the prevalence of MetS in Turkish patients with schizophrenia is similar to that of the general population, but lower than in other reports regarding the schizophrenia population.
Spiritual and Religious Involvement Relate to End-of-Life Decision-Making in Patients Undergoing Coronary Bypass Graft Surgery
Authors: Ai Amy L. , Park Crystal L. , Shearer Marshall
Published: May 2008

Settling one's end-of-life affairs in the face of coronary artery bypass graft surgery (CABG) can be both distressing and beneficial for individuals who are facing imminent threat of death. Religious thoughts, common in this context, may offer some comfort and support for facing this process. However, few empirical studies have addressed the role of religious or spiritual involvement in the settling of one's end-of-life affairs in cardiac patients. This prospective study investigated the effect of religious and spiritual factors on whether decisions regarding end-of-life had been made in a sample of middle-aged and older patients undergoing CABG. In particular, we expected faith factors of an intrinsic nature would promote this decision. Two weeks pre-operatively, patients (mean age = 65 years) were recruited for interviews. One hundred seventy-seven CABG patients completed the pre-operative and post-operative follow-up one month after surgery, while 96 offered information regarding their engagement in settling end-of-life affairs. Cardiac indicators were obtained from the computerized Society of Thoracic Surgeons' Adult Cardiac Database (STS). Multiple regression analyses revealed that private religiousness increased the likelihood of having engaged in end-of-life decision planning by nearly half again ( OR= .1.47, 95% CI = 1.10, 1.96, p < .05) and that experiencing reverence in secular contexts nearly doubled the likelihood ( OR = .1.99, 95% CI = 1.16, 3.44, p < .05). The reduced likelihood of having made plans was observed among those who scored higher on experiencing reverence in religious contexts ( OR = .44, 95% CI = .23, .87, p < .05) and among patients using petitionary prayer ( OR = .21, 95% CI = .04, .98, p < .05). These effects manifested after controlling for age, impacted functioning, and number of diseased arteries. Therefore, faith factors appear to have independent but complex effects on end-of-life decision making in middle-aged and older cardiac patients.
Narratives, Virtual Environments and Identity Semiotics: An Exploration of Pre-Service Teachers' Cognitions
Authors: Tettegah Sharon Y. , Whang Eun Won , Taylor Kona Renee , Cash Timothy J.
Published: May 2008

The current study explored text-based and animated narrative vignette (ANV) social simulations to specifically examine pre-service teachers' social cognitions and personal identities. The personal and social identity and narratives of a sample of eight randomly selected elementary preservice teachers were examined in depth out of 44 pre-service teachers. Content analyses revealed that ANV social simulations provide a psycho-educational outlet to engage in reflective cognitive processes that can engage pre-service teachers in expressions of joy and healing related to positive and traumatic events from their childhood school-related experiences. This article discusses how ANVs can provide a way of learning about personal and social identity through a critical examination of self using ANV social simulations as reflections of past school experiences.
The Higher Education of Gaming
Authors: Squire Kurt D. , Giovanetto Levi
Published: May 2008

New models of schooling are necessary as educational institutions attempt to transition into the digital age. This article is an ethnography of Apolyton University, an informal online university of gamers created to enhance pleasure from the game experience, teach the game, and improve upon the game's standard rule set. It identifies the life trajectory of the community from formation to completion, and identifies key participant structures that scaffold learning. The article argues that participation results in a trajectory of experience whereby players enter as players but leave as designers, as evidenced by gameplay practices, as well as several participants being hired by game companies as a result of their participation. The authors argue that this sort of participatory ethos is central to learning systems in a digital age.
Hitting Reply: A Qualitative Study to Understand Student Decisions to Respond to Online Discussion Postings
Authors: Chapman Diane D. , Storberg-Walker Julia , Stone Sophia J.
Published: May 2008

Providing tools for dialogue exchange does not ensure that students will respond to team mate postings or that online groups will grow in cohesiveness. Students decide whether or not to reply, and it is increasingly important to understand how students make these decisions due to the increase in distance education, millenials, and asynchronous teamwork in the workplace. This exploratory qualitative study was based on an interpretivist philosophy to understand how students reply to discussion postings. Students from two Master's-level research classes were asked why they chose to respond to certain discussion postings and why they chose not to reply to certain postings. The reasons why students responded to postings were clustered into four themes: group process criteria, leadership criteria, social criteria, and judgment criteria. The reasons why students did not respond fell into the criteria of applicability, judgment, leadership, and social criteria. Implications for e-learning instructors and practitioners are discussed in terms of promoting social presence and facilitating collaborative group work.
Judging Text Presented on Screen: Implications for Validity
Authors: Johnson Martin , Greatorex Jackie
Published: May 2008

Technological innovation undoubtedly offers many potential benefits for education and the assessment of learning, which have been acknowledged elsewhere. One area that is relatively under-researched relates to the practice of how assessors interact with longer texts that are presented on screen. This is an important area of study because there might be moves to scan or digitally capture longer texts, such as essays or portfolios that contain long textual chunks, and to deliver them online to assessors. This use of technology affords a number of benefits, including the opportunity to transfer data speedily. It also allows a number of assessors to view the same evidence simultaneously, enabling the timely checking of assessor reliability during the assessment process. This article explores the theoretical and limited empirical literature to discuss the potential impact that technology might have on assessors' judgments of texts presented on screen. The review cites literature from across a variety of educational settings where it is increasingly becoming common practice to capture and assess learners' work through digital methods.
Emotions and Student Roles in an Online Course
Authors: Glazer Courtney
Published: May 2008

A study examining an online graduate-level course for evidence of distributed emotion yielded many findings, including emotion being socially distributed. In particular, it was found that many students played distinct and constant emotional roles which impacted all class members. These roles fall into the following categories: cognitive task-based, perspective-based, emotion-based, or a combination. The implications of this finding include the effect that distributed emotion has on collaborative online work groups and the lessening of the emotional load often felt by online instructors as distributed emotion is taken into account.
Conceptualising Quality E-Learning in Higher Education
Authors: Usoro Abel , Abid Abbas
Published: May 2008

Both academic and non-academic institutions, such as businesses, have increasingly been interested in the use of information and communications technology (ICT) to support learning, otherwise termed e-learning. This interest has been fuelled by the new developments in ICT, such as multimedia and the Internet with its World Wide Web. Other incentives have been the associated (expected) reduction of the cost of education and the easier expansion of education to the increasing market that cannot be reached by traditional delivery. Especially with higher education, the issue of quality is raised, leading to both anecdotal and empirical evidence of ways to maintain quality while deriving the benefits of e-learning. This article discusses the issue of quality in higher education and examines how it can be maintained in online learning. Key current research is used to develop a conceptual framework of nine factors, which include content, delivery, technical provision (referred to as tangibles) and globalisation. Areas for further studies (including primary study to validate the framework) are highlighted.
Comparison of Force, Power, and Striking Efficiency for a Kung Fu Strike Performed by Novice and Experienced Practitioners: Preliminary Analysis
Authors: Neto Osmar Pinto , Magini Marcio , Saba Marcelo M. F. , Pacheco Marcos Tadeu Tavares
Published: May 2008

This paper presents a comparison of force, power, and efficiency values calculated from Kung Fu Yau-Man palm strikes, when performed by 7 experienced and 6 novice men. They performed 5 palm strikes to a freestanding basketball, recorded by high-speed camera at 1000 Hz. Nonparametric comparisons and correlations showed experienced practitioners presented larger values of mean muscle force, mean impact force, mean muscle power, mean impact power, and mean striking efficiency, as is noted in evidence obtained for other martial arts. Also, an interesting result was that for experienced Kung Fu practitioners, muscle power was linearly correlated with impact power (ρ = .98) but not for the novice practitioners (ρ = .46).
Sources of Listening Anxiety in Learning English as a Foreign Language
Authors: Chang Anna Ching-Shyang
Published: May 2008

In this study of college students' listening anxiety in learning English in a classroom context, participants were 160 students (47 men and 113 women) ages 18 to 19 years. To address their listening anxiety, participants were chosen from students enrolling in a required listening course. A listening questionnaire was used to assess learners' anxiety about spoken English, its intensity, and the main sources of listening anxiety. Overall, participants showed moderately high intensity of anxiety in listening to spoken English, but were more anxious in testing than in general situations. In contrast to previous research on the nature of spoken English as the main source of listening anxiety, this study found that low confidence in comprehending spoken English, taking English listening courses as a requirement, and worrying about test difficulty were the three main factors contributing to participants' listening anxiety in a classroom context. Participants' learning profiles both in the classroom and outside the class yielded data which provides suggestions for reducing anxiety.
Lateral Foot-Movement Times in Sitting and Standing Postures
Authors: Chan Alan H. S. , Ng Annie W. Y.
Published: May 2008

This study examined the effects of foot-side, sex, movement amplitude, and target width on lateral and nonvisually controlled foot-movement time with a reciprocal foot-tapping task in sitting and standing postures. 9 male and 9 female right-foot dominant undergraduates (ages 20 to 25 years) with no reported physical and health problems with their lower limbs voluntarily participated. Analysis indicated foot-movement time in a standing posture was much faster than that in a sitting posture. Target width and movement amplitude had significant effects on foot-movement time, while the effects of foot-side and sex were not significant. Multiple regression models with inclusion of the significant factors were examined which should be useful in predicting foot-movement time required for different tasks in sitting and standing postures. Possible applications of the results may be made to the design of work and foot controls in terms of the related task factors for person-machine interfaces with two or more pedals.
Reading Self-Concept and Arab-American Students: A Three-Year Study
Authors: Alkhateeb Haitham M. , Abushihab Eiman F.
Published: May 2008

Data were collected over a 3-yr. period from 110 Arab-American students, 38 boys and 72 girls, whose ages ranged between 9 and 12 years ( M = 10.6 yr., SD = 1.1) and who were living in the USA and attending a private Arabic/Islamic weekend Sunday school. A self-report questionnaire, the Reading Self-concept scale of the Self-description Questionnaire, measuring students' perceptions of their reading self-concept was translated from English to Arabic and administered on the present sample in both languages. Although these students scored high on both versions, analysis showed that they scored significantly higher on the English reading self-concept than the Arabic reading self-concept. The English and Arabic reading self-concepts were highly correlated. Results were discussed in terms of providing appropriate reading programs for especially the boys, parents' education and expectations, and the Quran.
Effects of Input Device and Motion Type on a Cursor-Positioning Task
Authors: Yau Yi-Jan , Chao Chin-Jung , Hwang Sheue-Ling
Published: May 2008

Many studies have investigated the performance of using nonkey-board input devices under static situations, but few have considered the effects of motion type on manipulating these input devices. In this study comparison of 12 mens' performance using four input devices (three trackballs: currently used, trackman wheel, and erectly held trackballs, as well as a touch screen) under five motion types of static, heave, roll, pitch, and random movements was conducted. The input device and motion type significantly affected movement speed and accuracy, and their interaction significantly affected the movement speed. The touch screen was the fastest but the least accurate input device. The erectly held trackball was the slowest, whereas the error rate of the currently used trackball was the lowest. Impairments of the random motion on movement time and error rate were larger than those of other motion types. Considering objective and subjective evaluations, the trackman wheel and currently used trackball were more efficient in operation than the erectly held trackball and touch screen under the motion environments.
GLBT Teachers: The Evolving Legal Protections
Authors: Eckes Suzanne E. , McCarthy Martha M.
Published: May 2008

Gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgendered (GLBT) public school educators’ rights have not been clearly delineated by the courts. As such, the outcomes in legal controversies involving adverse employment consequences based on teachers’ sexual orientation have varied somewhat across jurisdictions and have been decided on a case-by-case basis. To examine the evolving law in this arena, this article analyzes all litigation pertaining to GLBT educators and antidiscrimination statutory provisions in all 50 states. By identifying and examining federal and state protections, this research contributes to an understanding of the role that legal requirements play in protecting GLBT public employees. Based on the comprehensive analysis of litigation and legislation, this article offers model statutory language to protect GLBT public employees.
Industrial Biotechnology takes off in Europe
Authors: Lex Maurice
Published: May 2008

Biotechnologies have the potential to significantly impact the quality of life in a sustainable society through the understanding, diagnosis, treatment and prevention of diseases, advances in agriculture and food production, and numerous industrial applications ranging from chemicals to materials including environmental protection and remediation. This article considers how the business sector will be modified by developments in the understanding of living organisms. Will the 21st century see the growth of a Bioeconomy based on applications of biotechnology as pervasive and as powerful as the information economy has been at the end of the 20th century?
Towards a Cure for Dementia: The Role of Axonal Transport in Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Wilson Richard J.
Published: May 2008

Alzheimer's disease is an incurable, fatal illness characterised by years of progressive mental decline. It afflicts half a million people in the UK–more than any other dementia. The primary risk factor is old age so this number is rising as we live longer. Current treatment is palliative while more potent drugs have encountered problems during clinical trials. It is known that the disease results from brain deterioration associated with the formation of microscopic lesions. Genetic mutations cause a small minority of cases but our knowledge of the underlying biological mechanisms is limited. The key to improved understanding may be a process vital to brain cells called axonal transport. Disruption of axonal transport seems to be an early event in the progression of the disease and is linked to lesion formation and brain dysfunction so a full investigation of this process should lead to a cure, if not prevention.
Zeolite Mediated Reactions: Mechanistic Aspects and Environmental Applications
Authors: Rhodes Christopher J.
Published: May 2008

An overview is presented of basic research and applications for the use of zeolites in environmentally-related topics. The use of these materials to promote oxidation reactions, and other catalytic processes is surveyed along with ship-in-a-bottle synthesis of particular zeolite-encapsulated catalysts. Methods for probing the surfaces of zeolites using spin-probes and ESR detection are mentioned. The ability of some thermally activated zeolites to produce spontaneously radical cations by single-electron oxidation of organic molecules is reviewed. The issue of the degree of acidity of H-zeolites is discussed, which demonstrates them not to be super-acids. Some ESR determinations of the adsorption of NOx species onto selected zeolites are reviewed and the use of zeolites to catalyse desulfurisation of hydrocarbons is considered. Finally, there is mention made of the use of zeolites to catalyse hydrodechlorination of CFC's and other organic chlorine-containing compounds. Surfactant-modified zeolites (SMZ) for use as polyfunctional decontamination agents are further discussed. Theoretical methods, e.g. Density Functional Theory (DFT), are finding their own application to studying the mechanisms of reactions that are mediated by zeolites as is shown throughout.
Cost effectiveness analysis of population-based serology screening and 13C-Urea breath test for Helicobacter pylori to prevent gastric cancer: A markov model
Authors: Xie Feng
Published: May 2008

Laparoscopic surgery is the main treatment method for patients with gastrointestinal malignant tumors. Although laparoscopic surgery is minimally invasive, its tool stimulation and pneumoperitoneum pressure often cause strong stress reactions in patients. On the other hand, gastrointestinal surgery can cause stronger pain in patients, compared to other surgeries. Transversus abdominis plane block (TAPB) can effectively inhibit the transmission of nerve impulses caused by surgical stimulation, alleviate patient pain, and thus alleviate stress reactions. Remazolam is an acting, safe, and effective sedative, which has little effect on hemodynamics and is suitable for most patients. TAPB combined with remazolam can reduce the dosage of total anesthetic drugs, reduce adverse reactions, reduce stress reactions, and facilitate the rapid postoperative recovery of patients.
Flow‐injection method for the determination of iodide/iodine using Ru(bpy)33+–NADH chemiluminescence detection
Authors: Waseem Amir , Yaqoob Mohammad , Nabi Abdul
Published: May 2008

A two‐channel flow‐injection (FI) method is reported for the determination of iodide and iodine by its enhancement effect on the Ru(bpy)33+–NADH chemiluminescence (CL) system. The limit of detection (3 s of blank) was 1.0 × 10–9 mol/L iodide/iodine, with a sample throughput of 60/h. The calibration graphs over the range 1.0–50 × 10–8 mol/L gave correlation coefficients of 0.9994 and 0.999 (n = 5) with relative standard deviations (RSD; n = 4) of 1.0–2.5%, respectively. The effects of interfering cations, anions and some organic compounds were also studied. The method was applied to iodized salts and pharmaceutical samples and the results obtained were in good agreement with the value quoted. The CL method developed was compared with spectrophotometric method. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A research project‐based and self‐determined teaching system of molecular biology techniques for undergraduates
Authors: Zhang Shuping
Published: May 2008

Molecular biology techniques play a very important role in understanding the biological activity. Students who major in biology should know not only how to perform experiments, but also the reasons for performing them. Having the concept of conducting research by integrating various techniques is especially important. This paper introduces a research project‐based and self‐determined teaching system of molecular biology techniques for undergraduates. Its aim is to create an environment mimicking real research programs and to help students build up confidence in their research skills. The students are allowed to explore a set of commonly used molecular biology techniques to solve some fundamental problems about genes on their own. They find a gene of interest, write a mini‐proposal, and give an oral presentation. This course provides students a foundation before entering the research laboratory and allows them to adapt easily to real research programs.
Problem‐solving test: Expression cloning of the erythropoietin receptor
Authors: Szeberényi József
Published: May 2008

Terms to be familiar with before you start to solve the test: cytokines, cytokine receptors, cDNA library, cDNA synthesis, poly(A)+ RNA, primer, template, reverse transcriptase, restriction endonucleases, cohesive ends, expression vector, promoter, Shine‐Dalgarno sequence, poly(A) signal, DNA helicase, DNA ligase, topoisomerases, [125I] labeling, transfection, mock transfection, SDS‐polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, β‐mercaptoethanol, autoradiography.
Trends in prognostic factors and survival from cutaneous melanoma in Yorkshire, UK and New South Wales, Australia between 1993 and 2003
Authors: Downing Amy , Yu Xue Qin , Newton‐Bishop Julia , Forman David
Published: May 2008

The aim of this study was to compare trends in prognostic factors and survival from cutaneous melanoma between 1993 and 2003 in 2 populations with dramatically different underlying incidence rates [Yorkshire, UK, and New South Wales (NSW), Australia] and to look at whether the greater investment in melanoma prevention and early detection in Australia has resulted in any relative differences in survival. Patients diagnosed with invasive melanoma between 1993 and 2003 in Yorkshire (n = 4,170) and NSW (n = 30,520) were identified from cancer registry databases and prognostic information (age, sex, socioeconomic background, tumour site and Breslow thickness) was extracted. Age‐standardised incidence rates, 5‐year relative survival and relative excess risk of death were calculated. Between 1993–1995 and 2001–2003, the incidence of melanoma increased in both areas. These increases were mainly seen in tumours with thickness ≤1 mm. Five‐year relative survival was 86.9% (95% CI 85.2–88.5) in Yorkshire and 88.6% (95% CI 88.1–89.1) in NSW. Compared with that in NSW, survival in Yorkshire was lower for males and for those living in the most deprived areas. Despite the increase in good prognosis of thin tumours, there was no significant change in survival over the time period in either area. After adjustment for differences in prognostic factors, the relative excess risk of death in Yorkshire compared to that in NSW reduced from 1.36 (95% CI 1.20–1.53) to 1.11 (95% CI 0.99–1.23). Differences in tumour thickness appeared to be the most important factor. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Anaerobic co‐digestion of potato processing wastewater with pig slurry and abattoir wastewater
Authors: Monou Maria , Pafitis Nicolas , Kythreotou Nicoletta , Smith Stephen R , Mantzavinos Dionissios , Kassinos Despo
Published: May 2008

BACKGROUND: Small‐scale experimental investigations were carried out on the anaerobic digestion of potato processing wastewater and its co‐digestion with pig slurry and/or abattoir wastewater. A simple and rapid procedure was used to determine the suitability of these wastes for digestion.

RESULTS: During the initial 5‐day acclimation phase, the seed (digested brewery waste) was replaced by the test waste before allowing the tests to incubate without further addition, where methanogenesis was measured. Although potato processing wastewater has low pH, with high fat content treatment via anaerobic digestion was still feasible in spite of low methane production. Co‐digestion with pig slurry and abattoir wastewater was therefore investigated to enhance the process. Pig slurry improved the process, which, when co‐digested with potato processing wastewater in equal ratio achieved 72% volatile solids removal, 35 mL average daily biogas production and 32% maximum methane content in 22 days (following the acclimation period). Co‐digestion with abattoir wastewater did not improve the digestion process due to poor buffering and low pH value.

CONCLUSION: Anaerobic co‐digestion may be a feasible treatment option for industrial bio‐wastes and livestock wastes produced in Cyprus and indeed in similar other countries of comparable market size and activities. Copyright © 2008 Society of Chemical Industry
Preoperative MR imaging in the evaluation of seminal vesicle invasion in prostate cancer: Pattern analysis of seminal vesicle lesions
Authors: Jung Dae Chul , Lee Hak Jong , Kim Seung Hyup , Choe Ghee Young , Lee Sang Eun
Published: May 2008

Purpose

To develop an image‐based classification system for seminal vesicle lesions (SVL) to detect seminal vesicle invasion (SVI) in prostate cancer and to evaluate whether pattern analysis of SVL with MR imaging could improve the accuracy of evaluating SVI.

Materials and Methods

The MR images of 217 patients who had undergone retropubic radical prostatectomy (RRP) due to prostate cancer were retrospectively analyzed by two uroradiologists, focusing on SVL. The SVL on T2‐weighted sequences was classified as five classes. In each class the results were correlated with histopathologic findings.

Results

Fourteen (6.5%) of 217 patients had evidence of SVI at histopathologic evaluation after RRP. Pattern analysis of SVL showed 71.4% sensitivity, 96.6% specificity for predicting SVI. ROC curves for the subjective scoring of SVI showed that reader 1 had an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.69 and reader 2 had an AUC of 0.81. The overall accuracy of pattern analysis was superior to both serum prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) level and subjective scoring (P < 0.01, McNemar test).

Conclusion

The classification system of SVL on the basis of their imaged morphologic features can provide an objective standard and simplify the abnormal findings to help predict SVI in prostate cancer. Pattern analysis of SVL with MR imaging improves the accuracy of detecting SVI. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.