bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of aglycone genistein in a rat experimental model of postmenopausal metabolic syndrome
Authors: Bitto Alessandra , Altavilla Domenica , Bonaiuto Antonio , Polito Francesca , Minutoli Letteria , Di Stefano Vincenzo , Giuliani Daniela , Guarini Salvatore , Arcoraci Vincenzo , Squadrito Francesco
Published: December 2008

Genistein aglycone, a soy derived isoflavone, has been demonstrated to be effective in reducing cardiovascular risk in postmenopausal women. We therefore investigated its effects in an experimental model of postmenopausal metabolic syndrome. Female spontaneously hypertensive obese rats (SHROB, n=40), a genetic model of syndrome X, and age-matched Wistar Kyoto (WKY, n=40) rats were used. A group of SHROB (n=20) and WKY (n=20) animals were ovariectomized (OVX). Four weeks after surgery all animals were randomized to receive either genistein (54 mg/human equivalent dose/day for 4 weeks), or vehicle. Body weight, food intake, systolic blood pressure (SBP), heart rate, plasma glucose, insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), total plasma cholesterol and triglycerides, and uterine weights were studied. Furthermore, we investigated acetylcholine- and sodium nitroprusside-induced relaxation of aortic rings as well as NG-L-arginine (L-NMA: 10–100 mM) induced vasoconstriction in phenylephrine-precontracted aortic segments. Liver expression of the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARA and gamma (PPARG was also assessed. OVX animals had a slight increase in SBP, body weight, insulin resistance, and plasma cholesterol. OVX-SHROB rats showed also impaired endothelial responses, blunted L-NMA induced contraction (L-NMA 100 mM, WKY=2.2±0.3 g/mg tissue; OVX-SHROB=1.1±0.4 g/mg tissue). Genistein treatment decreased SBP and plasma lipids, ameliorated endothelial dysfunction and insulin resistance, increased HDL cholesterol, and enhanced liver expression of PPARA and PPARG. Our data suggest that genistein is effective in ameliorating cardiovascular profiles in an experimental model of postmenopausal metabolic syndrome, attenuating the features of this disease. The effects of genistein are likely mediated by PPARA and PPARG receptors. This evidence would support the rationale for some pilot clinical trials using genistein in postmenopausal women affected by metabolic syndrome.
Political risk in light rail transit PPP projects
Authors: Smith N. J. , Gannon M.
Published: December 2008

Since 2003 public–private partnerships (PPPs) have represented between 10 and 13.5% of the total investment in public services in the UK. The macro-economic and political benefits of PPPs were among the key drivers for central government’s decision to promote this form of procurement to improve UK public services. Political support for a PPP project is critical and is frequently cited as the most important critical success factor. This paper investigates the significance of political support and reviews the treatment of political risk in a business case by the public sector project sponsor for major UK-based light rail transit PPP projects during their development stage. The investigation demonstrates that in the early project stages it is not traditional quantitative Monte Carlo risk analysis that is important; rather it is the identification and representation of political support within a business case together with an understanding of how this information is then used to inform critical project decisions.
The Gerber-shiu Expected Discounted Penalty-reward Function under an Affine Jump-diffusion Model
Authors: Avram Florin , Usabel Miguel
Published: December 2008

We provide a unified analytical treatment of first passage problems under an affine state-dependent jump-diffusion model (with drift and volatility depending linearly on the state). Our proposed model, that generalizes several previously studied cases, may be used for example for obtaining probabilities of ruin in the presence of interest rates under the rational investement strategies proposed by Berk & Green (2004).
Modeling of NOM-removal in drinking water biofilters
Authors: Qiongqiong Xia , Wei Chen , Xingcan Zheng
Published: December 2008

The application of biofiltration is a hot topic in the drinking water treatment field, and the mathematical modeling of biofilters has received considerable attention. However, no practical model is available for designing the biofiltration process. The aim of this research is to develop a representative model which simulates NOM (natural organic matter) removal in water treatment biofilter.

A steady-state model was applied. Monod-type substrate utilization was used and the external and internal mass transfer was neglected in this model. The model described the process of substrate biodegradation, bacterial attachment onto filter media and detachment of suspended bacteria. It simulated the NOM and biomass profiles in a biofilter as a function of filter depth and filtration velocity. The key biokinetic parameters k and Ks were estimated through a special experiment.

The results of the model testing show that the model prediction agrees well with the experimental data. It is possible to adapt the model under various conditions by changing the parameters such as flow rate, bacteria and DOC concentration et al. Therefore, the model is an effective tool for designing and operation.
The yardstick competition regulatory model: discussing the Portuguese experience
Authors: Marques R. Cunha
Published: December 2008

The presence of market failures in the water and sewerage services requires their economic regulation. Both market failures and the high number of players underpin the use of yardstick competition. This regulatory method is based on the comparison of the performance results between companies from the same sector. This paper analyzes it and discusses the empirical cases at work. It examines the yardstick model adopted in Portugal that has produced noteworthy results.
Modeling of external and internal concentration polarization effect on flux behaviour of forward osmosis
Authors: Tan C. H. , Ng H. Y.
Published: December 2008

The forward osmosis process has recently gained more interest from researchers and is being viewed as an alternative to various membrane processes. The primary challenge in developing the process is the severity of both external and internal concentration polarizations, which significantly reduce the water flux across the highly selective membrane. This study investigates the impact of concentration polarization on flux behaviour. A model adopted from the boundary layer concept was used to describe the external concentration polarization effect. A previously developed model for the internal concentration polarization was further improved from the governing convective-diffusion equations, to achieve a better transport model that was in excellent agreement with experimental flux data. Laboratory experiments were carried out to account for both the external and internal concentration polarization and the associated water flux was verified with the improved models. Results showed excellent agreement for both models, which were used to describe external and internal concentration polarization, and these modified models were more accurate than previously used models.
Using Nest Temperature to Estimate Nest Attendance of Piping Plovers
Authors: SCHNEIDER ERIC G. , MCWILLIAMS SCOTT R.
Published: December 2008

Abstract: Recent technological innovations allow remote monitoring of avian nest temperature that minimizes disturbance and expense without altering clutch sizes. However, the efficacy of such techniques has not been determined for ground‐nesting birds. We compared the efficacy of 2 techniques, iButton® data loggers (Maxim/Dallas Semiconductor Corp., Sunnyvale, CA) and custom‐built thermocouples, to measure nest temperature of piping plovers (Charadrius melodus) relative to nest attendance at Cape Cod National Seashore, Massachusetts, USA. Neither technique affected hatching success (U = 389.5, P = 0.874) or rates of predation of nests containing devices (P = 0.894). We estimated nest attendance successfully with thermocouples in nests as long as air and surface temperatures were <29° Cand 43° C, respectively. Although iButtons could not be used to determine duration of on‐bouts and off‐bouts of incubating piping plovers, they were effective at determining when nests were abandoned or predated. We recommend the use of thermocouples for studying nest attendance of ground‐nesting birds, in general, and of threatened and endangered species, in particular, where disturbance should be minimized and altering clutch sizes is not feasible.
Public vs. Private Good Research at Land-Grant Universities
Authors: Rausser Gordon , Simon Leo , Stevens Reid
Published: December 2008

The basic concern of this paper is the effect of private sponsorship of university research on the allocation of expenditures between public good research and commercial applications. Throughout the land-grant university system, there is much concern that as a result of reduced government funding, fundamental research will be neglected at the expense of research that is geared toward commercial applications. This paper attempts to shed some light on the relationship between research priorities and the availability of public funding for university research. In particular, we use both a static and a dynamic model to investigate the conditions under which university/private research partnerships can crowd-in or crowd-out basic science research as public funding becomes scarcer.
Does a Rising Biofuels Tide Raise All Boats? A Study of Cash Rent Determinants for Iowa Farmland under Hay and Pasture
Authors: Du Xiaodong , Hennessy David , Edwards William A.
Published: December 2008

Iowa's farmland consists of over 16% hay crops and pastureland, a significant portion of which is under cash rental contracts. This study investigates the comparative relationships between cash rental rates for cropped land and non-cropped land, where the latter includes hay and pastureland. We find that higher crop prices resulting from biofuel demand induces land use conversion from non-cropped land to crop production and thus bids up non-cropped land rents. Compared with changes in cropped land cash rents, non-cropped farmland rents could increase by a higher percentage. Non-cropped land cash rental rates are largely determined by crop and feeder cattle prices, population density, soil quality, and proportion of non-cropped land in a specific area. A primary effect of ethanol subsidies is the redistribution of income between corn growers and livestock producers, whereby higher livestock feed costs together with increasing hay and pastureland cash rents harm the dairy and feedlot beef sectors. Our study shows that, because of the positive effect on rents, the policies have an indeterminate effect on landowners operating in the cow-calf sector.
Passing the Buck in Sequential Negotiation
Authors: Clark Derek J , Pereau Jean-Christophe
Published: December 2008

We consider bargaining between three firms that are all essential in creating a surplus. One of the firms is dominant in the sense that it ultimately decides whether the surplus will be created. The other firms have an incentive to get a large share of the pie for themselves, but leaving enough for the dominant firm that it finds it profitable to create the surplus. Hence, the smaller firms have preferences over who they take their share from. The bargaining takes place in sequence, and we identify optimal choice of bargaining framework for each firm. Conditions are presented under which a firm would prefer not to be represented at a stage in the negotiation process, and we show that the preferred order of bargaining for the dominant firm is also that which maximizes the total expected surplus from negotiation.
Institutionalization of islamic communities after the desintegration of SFR Yugoslavia
Authors: Barisic Srdjan
Published: December 2008

In this article basic information about Islamic representative institutions in former Yugoslavia region is presented. After disintegration of SFR Yugoslavia and after some new national countries had been created, unique Islamic community in SFR Yugoslavia has been transformed into several autonomous Islamic communities. In this text, author deals with changes of organizational structures of Islamic communities only, and provides a groundwork for further exploration of those changes, being aware that institutional changes are part of one wider process of Balkanic societies transformation, that is ethnical homogenization, revitalization and politization of religion, religization of politics, demographic development, etc. The most complex situation is in Serbia, where the Muslims are organized in several Islamic communities. Mutual legitimacy questioning of the Islamic communities' representative organs represents a great problem in advocating religious rights and interests of the Muslims, and the absence of a unique religious organization hinders their position, to a large extent.
Sufism: The inner dimension of Islam
Authors: Vukomanovic Milan
Published: December 2008

The first part of this article is a short introduction into Sufism, seen as a unique mode of expressing the internal, mystical dimension of Islam. In this section, the history, doctrine and ritual practice of the main dervish communities have been considered. In the second part, predominantly based on the author's preliminary field study of the extant dervish communities in Bosnia-Herzegovina, more attention has been dedicated to the revival of Islamic mysticism in a contemporary context. In terms of sociology of religion, the revitalization of Sufism in Bosnia-Herzegovina could be understood within the broader framework of the revival of classical religiosity in the Balkans. After World War Two, the activities of the dervish orders in Bosnia were prohibited, mainly due to the modernist Islamic community supported by the ruling structures. This, of course, should be taken into consideration when discussing the issue of Islamic orthodoxy versus mysticism. A complete renewal of Sufism has taken place in the 1990s, after the dissolution of Yugoslavia and completion of the war. Therefore, one is dealing here with the renewal of classical religiosity, because Sufism had been developed within Orthodox Islam in Bosnia since the Ottoman period.
O pravu prvog okupatora u teritorijalnim sporovima
Authors: Vukovic Ivan
Published: December 2008

(francuski) L'auteur analyse les diff?rentes mani?res dont l'argument du premier occupant, originellement articul? en support de la propri?t? priv?e, est utilis? comme raison pour l'attribution du contr?le politique d'un territoire. L'auteur arrive ? la conclusion que dans le cas du Kosovo cet argument aujourd'hui justifie la division de la souverainet? par la division du territoire du Kosovo.
John Dewey's conception of application of law in its philosophical and social context
Authors: Spaic Bojan
Published: December 2008

John Dewey, one of the most important thinkers of pragmatism, elaborated a specific conception of law partially and gradually in the long course of his intellectual career. This part of his broader philosophical outlook is analyzed here through one of its most important segments - application of law - and interpreted in its historical, social and cultural background. The first part of the article concentrates on the 'objective' (cultural, social and historical) reasons for giving emphasis to the application of law in his legal philosophy. This domination of the application of law in his legal thought is derived from the needs of a rapidly changing structure of the American society in the first half of the XX century, and theoretically has its place in an all around phenomenon in American intellectual history in general that Morton White terms antiformalism. The second part of the article analyses his legal conceptions and their connection with the general philosophical position of this pragmatist. Dewey formed his conception of application of law as an integral part of his broader philosophical standpoint, and especially on the basis of his radical reinterpretation of logic and truth. Since his understanding of the legal process has roots in his experimentalist conception of logic that encompasses the apprehension of the process of experimentation as the only warrant for the validity of propositions (that the 'truth' of a proposition is built in the process of its verification), he regards application as conditio sine qua non of the legality of norms in general. This leads us to the last part of the article that scathes possible lines of critical approach to Dewey's work in this field. The view that the legality of norms is derived from their application is in legal theory often regarded as sociologism, inasmuch as it disregards the normative aspects of the legal process and emphasizes the social ones to the point of making it void of the normative aspects in the totality of the process itself. The proper understanding of possible lines of criticism of Dewey's standpoints in legal philosophy guides us back again to confront his conceptions with their cultural background, with which the article begins.
Computer augmented modelling studies of Pb(II), Cd(II), Hg(II), Co(II), Ni(II), Cu(II) and Zn(II) complexes of L-glutamic acid in 1,2-propanediol-water mixtures
Authors: Vegi Rao , Muddapu Latha , Tirukkuvalluri Rao , Gollapalli Rao
Published: December 2008

Chemical speciation of Pb(II), Cd(II), Hg(II), Co(II), Ni(II), Cu(II) and Zn(II) complexes of L-glutamic acid was studied at 303 K in 0-60 vol. % 1,2-propanediol-water mixtures, whereby the ionic strength was maintained at 0.16 mol dm-3. The active forms of the ligand are + LH3, LH2 and LH-. The predominant detected species were ML, ML2, MLH, ML2H and ML2H2. The trend of the variation in the stability constants with changing dielectric constant of the medium is explained based on the cation stabilizing nature of the co-solvents, specific solvent-water interactions, charge dispersion and specific interactions of the co-solvent with the solute. The effect of systematic errors in the concentrations of the substances on the stability constants is in the order alkali > > acid > ligand > metal. The bioavailability and transportation of metals are explained based on distribution diagrams and stability constants.
Electrochemical properties of mixed WC and Pt-black powders
Authors: Obradovic Maja , Babic Biljana , Kowal Andrzej , Panic Vladimir , Gojkovic Snezana
Published: December 2008

The electrochemical characteristics of a mixture of Pt-black and WC powders and its catalytic activity for methanol and formic acid oxidation were investigated in acid solution. XRD and AFM measurements revealed that the WC powder employed for the investigation was a single-phase material consisting of crystallites/spherical particles of average size of about 50 nm, which were agglomerated into much larger particles. Cyclic voltammetry showed that the WC underwent electrochemical oxidation, producing tungstate species. In the case of the mixed Pt + WC powders, the tungstate species were deposited on the Pt as a thin film of hydrous tungsten oxide. Enhanced hydrogen intercalation in the hydrous tungsten oxide was observed and it was proposed to be promoted in mixed powders by the presence of hydrogen adatoms on bare Pt sites. The determination of Pt surface area in the Pt + WC layer by stripping of underpotentially deposited Cu revealed that the entire Pt surface was accessible for underpotential deposition of Cu. Investigation of the electrochemical oxidation of methanol and formic acid on Pt + WC and pure Pt layers did not indicate electrocatalytic promotion due to the presence of WC.
Therapy of lupus nephritis with mycophenolate mofetil
Authors: Celic Dejan , Ilic Tatjana , Djurdjevic-Mirkovic Tatjana , Mitic Igor , Milic Biljana , Curic Slobodan
Published: December 2008

Introduction Mycophenolate mofetil is an immunosupressive agent used in transplantation and subsequently in a variety of autoimmune conditions. It inhibits both B and T lymphocyte proliferation, and also has nonimmune effects on the kidney. The major experience in systemic lupus erythematosus has focused on proliferative lupus nephritis. Materials and methods In our study we treated 8 female patients having proliferative lupus nefritis with combination therapy of prednisone (1mg/kg body weight) and mycophenolate mofetil (2g per day). Complete remission was defined as a value for urinary protein excretion that was less than 0.5g per 24 hours, with normal urinary sediment, a normal serum albumin concentration and improved or stable serum creatinine. Partial remission was defined as a daily proteinuria below 2g in the previosly nephrotic patient or minimum 30% from starting values, with normal urinary sediment, serum albumin of minimum 30g/L and stable serum creatinine. Results Two patients had a complete remission after 7 and 2 months respectively. Five patients had a partial remission after 5.2?4.3 months of therapy. One patient did not react to therapy. There were no side effects during the course of therapy. Discussion Considering the fact that 7/8 patients have had nephrotic range proteinuria and that 50% of patients were refractory on standard induction therapy, the results of this study are a good indicator of value of mycophenolate mofetil in the therapy of proliferative forms of lupus nephritis. Conclusion Mycophenolate mofetil has satisfactory results in the treatment of proliferative forms of lupus nephritis with minimal side effects.
Evaluation, treatment and evolution of Broca's aphasia
Authors: Stanic Sanja , Devecerski Gordana
Published: December 2008

This paper presents the evaluation treatment and improvement of a patient with Broca's aphasia. A specific form of speech therapy, based on the peculiarities of the clinical picture of Broca's aphasia, was applied during one year. Our results have shown that this form of therapy leads to a significant improvement of the communicative abilities, even in the cases with severe form of aphasia. The importance of application of the specific methods and therapies for the rehabilitation of aphasic patients is pointed out.
Psychosomatic concept of hyperthyroidism - Graves type: Behavioral and biochemical characteristics
Authors: Draganic-Gajic Saveta , Lecic-Tosevski Dusica , Svrakic Dragan , Paunovic Vladimir , Cvejic Vesna , Cloninger Robert
Published: December 2008

Introduction. In this study we test the hypothesis that specific behavioral and biochemical vulnerabilities characterize individuals with hyperthyroidism - Graves type, one of the classically cited 'psychosomatic disorders'. Material and methods. The sample included 24 subjects with Graves disease and 34 controls. All participants were evaluated for personality and temperament characteristics and for platelet MAO activity. A smaller group of panic disorder patients was tested with the same set of measures to ensure a validity of the study, especially regarding results on personality tests. RESULTS. Individuals with hyperthyroidism had lower platelet MAO activity and higher scores on histrionic (Hy), depressive (D) and hypochondriac (H) subscale on the MMPI-201 than normal controls. Their TPQ temperament scores were characterized by high Harm Avoidance, whereas other temperament traits were average. Platelet MAO activity was inversely correlated with the MMPI-201 psychopatic deviance scale (Pd) and positively correlated with the TPQ Reward Dependence scale. CONCLUSIONS. Our results provide support for the psychosomatic concept of Graves' disease. Personality features, temperament traits, and platelet MAO activity of hyperthyroid individuals are different from those in normal controls and correspond to those observed in anxiety disorders. We propose that the observed behavioral and biochemical similaritites between hyperthyroid and anxiety disorder patients represent an equicausality phenomenon, where the same underlying heritable factors, such as variable central monoaminergic activity coupled with temperament-related susceptibility to stress, facilitate phenotypic manifestation of a number of psychosomatic and psychiatric disorders - including Graves disease. The observed correlations between personality traits and MAO activity provide support for the hypothesized functional relationship between the underlying central monoaminergic activity and temperament traits associated with anxiety, depression, and impulsivity.
Fatty Acid Incubation of Myotubes From Humans With Type 2 Diabetes Leads to Enhanced Release of β-Oxidation Products Because of Impaired Fatty Acid Oxidation
Authors: Wensaas Andreas J. , Rustan Arild C. , Just Marlene , Berge Rolf K. , Drevon Christian A. , Gaster Michael
Published: December 2008

OBJECTIVE—Increased availability of fatty acids is important for accumulation of intracellular lipids and development of insulin resistance in human myotubes. It is unknown whether different types of fatty acids like eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) or tetradecylthioacetic acid (TTA) influence these processes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—We examined fatty acid and glucose metabolism and gene expression in cultured human skeletal muscle cells from control and type 2 diabetic individuals after 4 days of preincubation with EPA or TTA.

RESULTS—Type 2 diabetes myotubes exhibited reduced formation of CO2 from palmitic acid (PA), whereas release of β-oxidation products was unchanged at baseline but significantly increased with respect to control myotubes after preincubation with TTA and EPA. Preincubation with TTA enhanced both complete (CO2) and β-oxidation of palmitic acid, whereas EPA increased only β-oxidation significantly. EPA markedly enhanced triacylglycerol (TAG) accumulation in myotubes, more pronounced in type 2 diabetes cells. TAG accumulation and fatty acid oxidation were inversely correlated only after EPA preincubation, and total level of acyl-CoA was reduced. Glucose oxidation (CO2 formation) was enhanced and lactate production decreased after chronic exposure to EPA and TTA, whereas glucose uptake and storage were unchanged. EPA and especially TTA increased the expression of genes involved in fatty acid uptake, activation, accumulation, and oxidation.

CONCLUSIONS—Our results suggest that 1) mitochondrial dysfunction in diabetic myotubes is caused by disturbances downstream of fatty acid β-oxidation; 2) EPA promoted accumulation of TAG, enhanced β-oxidation, and increased glucose oxidation; and 3) TTA improved complete palmitic acid oxidation in diabetic myotubes, opposed increased lipid accumulation, and increased glucose oxidation.
On Learning Processes and the National Mathematics Advisory Panel Report
Authors: Lobato Joanne
Published: December 2008

This article is a response to Foundations for Success: The Final Report of the National Mathematics Advisory Panel (2008) and to one of the task group reports on which it was based, the report of the Task Group on Learning Processes. The author uses Maxwell’s two views of causality—regularity and process—to explore three major issues raised in the report: the nature of what is learned, how learning occurs, and the transfer of learning. She proposes alternative recommendations to those offered by the Panel, by drawing upon the mathematics education literature, which was largely excluded from the reviewed research. Furthermore, by neglecting research grounded in a process view of causality, the report excludes perspectives and findings that would have illuminated what it means to develop conceptual understanding in mathematics—one of three valued outcomes cited by the Panel.
Teachers, Teaching, and Teacher Education: Comments on the National Mathematics Advisory Panel’s Report
Authors: Borko Hilda , Whitcomb Jennifer A.
Published: December 2008

This article considers the analyses and recommendations presented in Foundations for Success: The Final Report of the National Mathematics Advisory Panel (2008) , especially the chapters addressing teachers and teacher education (chap. 6) and instructional practices (chap. 7). The authors highlight critical recommendations; identify potential gaps in the specification of topics and review of research; and suggest ways to develop a coherent, systematic strategy to enact recommendations that will improve the quality of the teaching force and mathematics instruction. They organize their comments about the Panel’s findings and recommendations around two broad questions: What issues are (and are not) part of the conversation? and What evidence informs (and does not inform) the conversation?
Randomized Trials in Mathematics Education: Recalibrating the Proposed High Watermark
Authors: Sloane Finbarr C.
Published: December 2008

The author reviews the recommendations in Foundations for Success: The Final Report of the National Mathematics Advisory Panel (2008) and agrees that a rebalancing of mathematics education research is timely and necessary, but questions whether randomized trials of small experimental studies and large field studies, without a clearer framing of the needed continuum of studies, can adequately rebalance the portfolio and address the Panel’s “what works” questions. He offers one listing of the possible phases of research required to support high-quality causal inference in mathematics education as a way to foster continued debate about the ease of moving a model of research that works in one domain (drug trials) into the forced service of another intellectual domain (education).
Rejoinder to the Critiques of the National Mathematics Advisory Panel Final Report
Authors: Benbow Camilla Persson , Faulkner Larry R.
Published: December 2008

The authors respond to comments and criticisms made of Foundations for Success: The Final Report of the National Mathematics Advisory Panel (2008). Given the requirements of the president’s executive order, constraints of time, and the need to make recommendations generalizable to national policy, the Panel adopted appropriately high evidentiary standards for its recommendations. The authors also respond to criticisms voiced on Panel findings regarding mathematics curricula, instructional practices, learning processes, teachers and teacher education, and assessment. While scholars should continue to develop promising programs of research, experimental or otherwise, the report offers a solid basis for improving math achievement.
Scaling Up an Early Reading Program: Relationships Among Teacher Support, Fidelity of Implementation, and Student Performance Across Different Sites and Years
Authors: Stein Marc L. , Berends Mark , Fuchs Douglas , McMaster Kristen , Sáenz Laura , Yen Loulee , Fuchs Lynn S. , Compton Donald L.
Published: December 2008

Successful implementation of evidence-based educational practices at scale is of great importance but has presented significant challenges. In this article, the authors address the following questions: How does the level of on-site technical assistance affect student outcomes? Do teachers’ fidelity of treatment implementation and their perceptions of school climate mediate effects on student performance? Using a randomized control trial at scale, the authors examine Kindergarten Peer Assisted Learning Strategies, which previously has been shown to be effective in increasing student reading achievement. Analyzing data from 2 years and three sites, the analyses show that the level of on-site technical support has significant effects on reading achievement gains, are robust across multiple sites, and are mediated by fidelity of implementation within teachers’ classrooms.
The Art Song and Tagore: Settings by Western Composers
Authors: Sen Suddhaseel
Published: December 2008

There were notable musical settings of Rabindranath Tagore's poems made roughly between 1914 and 1925, when his reputation in Europe was at or near its peak. This article provides a detailed account of Tagore as perceived in European musical circles of that period set against a broader sketch and critical assessment of ‘exoticism’ in Western music. It then offers a finely grained musicological analysis (supplemented by a discography) of settings of Tagore's poems (in translation) by selected European composers. In particular it contrasts Szymanowski and Zemlinsky. The finale of the latter's Lyrische Symphonie the composer himself directed in the poet's presence in Prague in 1926.
Species-specific Fungal DNA in Airborne Dust as Surrogate for Occupational Mycotoxin Exposure?
Authors: Halstensen Anne Straumfors
Published: December 2008

Possible health risks associated with occupational inhalation of mycotoxin-containing dust remain largely unknown, partly because methods for mycotoxin detection are not sensitive enough for the small dust masses obtained by personal sampling, which is needed for inhalable exposure measurements. Specific and sensitive PCR detection of fungi with mycotoxin-producing potential seem to be a good surrogate for occupational exposure measurements that include all fungal structures independent of morphology and cultivability. Results should, however, be interpreted with caution due to variable correlations with mycotoxin concentrations.
The effect of using vegetable fat blend on some attributes of kashar cheese
Authors: Kesenkaş Harun , Dinkçia Nayil , Kemal Seçkinb A. , Kinika Özer , Gönç Siddik
Published: December 2008

Kashar cheese was produced from whole milk (MF) or skim milk homogenized with a commercial vegetable fat blend (VF) by the traditional procedure. The resulting cheese was stored for 3 months at 5°C, and analyzed initially for its gross composition and cholesterol content. In addition, the proteolysis and lipolysis, organic acid content and fatty acid composition were studied during the ripening of the cheese.
The replacement of milk fat with a vegetable fat blend mainly affected pH, total solids and cholesterol content in the initial composition of the cheese (P < 0.05). The acid degree value and tyrosine contents in both types of cheese increased throughout ripening and significant differences were found between the cheeses after only 30 days of ripening (P < 0.05). The organic acid concentrations of both cheeses changed during ripening (P < 0.05) except for citric and oxalic acids. MF cheese showed higher levels of citric, succinic and oxalic acids especially towards to the end of ripening. Palmitic acid was the dominant fatty acid in MF cheese while the most abundant fatty acids in VF cheese were palmitic and oleic acid. The higher unsaturated fatty acid composition of the VF cheese has attracted attention from the healthy food image point of view.
Agronomic performance and chemical response of sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) to some organic nitrogen sources and conventional nitrogen fertilizers under sandy soil conditions
Authors: Helmy Ayman M. , Ramadan Mohamed Fawzy
Published: December 2008

Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) is an option for oilseed production, particularly in dry land areas due to good root system development. In this study, two field experiments were performed in the El-Khattara region (Sharkia Governorate, Egypt) during the 2005 season. The objective of this research was to determine the effect of organicnitrogen (ON) sources and their combinations as well as to compare the effect of ON and ammonium sulfate (AS) as a conventional fertilizer added individually or in combination on growth, yield components, oil percentage and the uptake of some macronutrients by sunflowers grown on sandy soil. The treatments of chicken manure (CM) and a mixture of farmyard manure (FYM) with CM were superior to the other treatments and gave the highest yield, dry matter yield, NPK uptake by plants at all growth stages along with seed yield at the mature stage. The effect of the different ON on crop yield and its components may follow the order; CM> palma residues (PR)> FYM. This was more emphasized when the materials were mixed with AS at a ratio of 3:1 and 1:1. The uptake of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) by plants was affected by the addition of different N sources and treatments. The highest nutrient content and uptake by straw were obtained when treated with CM followed by PR at all growth stages, while it was PR followed by CM for seeds. Oil recovery was shown to respond to the N supply and the changes in individual fatty acids were not statistically different. However, it seems that the application of organic fertilizers resulted in an increase in total unsaturated fatty acids compared to the control.
De los sistemas de prefabricación cerrada a la industrialización sutil de la edifi cación: algunas claves del cambio tecnológico
Authors: Salas J.
Published: December 2008

El trabajo que sigue pretende aportar hechos y posibles supuestos razonados sobre la evolución del sector de la edifi cación europea, con especial énfasis en el caso español, de la trayectoria de las tecnologías empleadas en el proceso de industrialización de la construcción en un período sufi cientemente amplio, –básicamente de 1970 a la fecha– lo que supone una panorámica de los hechos que han motivado o infl uido en el proceso de evolución de la construcción de viviendas a base de sistemas de prefabricación cerrada mayoritariamente mediante grandes paneles de hormigón a las nuevas formas de proyectar y construir que conlleva la utilización de componentes y subsistemas constructivos de diferentes procedencias. El trabajo se estructura básicamente en forma de cinco temas que, en parte, recogen y actualizan aportaciones ya publicadas por el autor sobre los siguientes aspectos: la evolución cronológica de las tecnologías constructivas utilizadas mayoritariamente en las tres últimas décadas; los cambios en las técnicas de producción de elementos prefabricados; las juntas como invariantes de la construcción industrializada; el nuevo enfoque de la coordinación modular y la repercusión económica de los elementos funcionales en los presupuestos de construcción de viviendas.
d_21 system: un juego para ser habitado
Authors: Altozano F. , Reyes J. M.
Published: December 2008

d21_system es un prototipo de habitación transformable construido a base de S.3c (sistemas de construcción por componentes compatibles) que consiste en: 1- un catalogo de cabinas producidas en serie. Totalmente equipadas2- una estructura de acero atornillada con sus tramos de escalera idénticos y normalizados3- una estructura de madera compuesta de 4 marcas distintas compatible con la estructura de acero4- tres redes de instalaciones capaces de enchufar- desenchufar en su trazado fi jo tanto las cabinas equipadas, como los focos y enchufes de corriente eléctrica que se necesiten5- armarios- rodantes y paneles deslizantes para dividir y separar las diferentes zonas de usos. La aplicación de los procesos pertenecientes a "la industrialización abierta" es lo que permite pensar en esta clase de "mecanos abiertos". d21_system fue montado en el patio central de IFEMA para el certamen CONSTRUTEC`o4 y se montó en tan sólo 15 días.
Cross‐sectional study of violence in emerging adulthood
Authors: Marcus Robert F.
Published: December 2008

Theories of emerging adulthood, the evolutionary perspective, and the presence of turning points in the lives of 19–25‐year olds were examined in relation to serious perpetrated violence for a cross‐sectional sample of men and women (n=14,098) from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health (Add Health), Wave III. Perpetrated, self‐reported violence included armed robbery, gang fighting, using a weapon in a fight, pulling a knife or gun on someone, or shooting or stabbing someone. Results showed that 11.3% of emergent adults had perpetrated at least one of these behaviors in the past year. Hierarchical logistic regression analysis partially supported the three theories for both men and women, beyond the contribution of violence in adolescence. The presence of Wave III violence was more likely given the unique contributions of unmarried status and economic risk. Moreover, and consistent with the theory of emerging adulthood, both sensation seeking and depression declined with age and contributed to the acknowledgement of Wave III violence, beyond the contribution of controls for Wave I violence (6 years earlier), demographics, age, gender, unmarried status, and economic risk. Findings of age‐related declines and gender differences in prevalence rates were consistent with previous research on nationally representative samples, and with the predictions of the three theories. Aggr. Behav. 35:188–202, 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Erythropoietin protects the developing brain from hyperoxia‐induced cell death and proteome changes
Authors: Kaindl Angela M. , Sifringer Marco , Koppelstaetter Andrea , Genz Kerstin , Loeber Rebecca , Boerner Constanze , Stuwe Janine , Klose Joachim , Felderhoff‐Mueser Ursula
Published: December 2008

Objective

Oxygen toxicity has been identified as a risk factor for adverse neurological outcome in survivors of preterm birth. In infant rodent brains, hyperoxia induces disseminated apoptotic neurodegeneration. Because a tissue‐protective effect has been observed for recombinant erythropoietin (rEpo), widely used in neonatal medicine for its hematopoietic effect, we examined the effect of rEpo on hyperoxia‐induced brain damage.

Methods

Six‐day‐old C57Bl/6 mice or Wistar rats were exposed to hyperoxia (80% O2) or normoxia for 24 hours and received rEpo or normal saline injections intraperitoneally. The amount of degenerating cells in their brains was determined by DeOlmos cupric silver staining. Changes of their brain proteome were determined through two‐dimensional electrophoresis and mass spectrometry. Western blot, enzyme activity assays and real‐time polymerase chain reaction were performed for further analysis of candidate proteins.

Results

Systemic treatment with 20,000 IE/kg rEpo significantly reduced hyperoxia‐induced apoptosis and caspase‐2, ‐3, and ‐8 activity in the brains of infant rodents. In parallel, rEpo inhibited most brain proteome changes observed in infant mice when hyperoxia was applied exclusively. Furthermore, brain proteome changes after a single systemic rEpo treatment point toward a number of mechanisms through which rEpo may generate its protective effect against oxygen toxicity. These include reduction of oxidative stress and restoration of hyperoxia‐induced increased levels of proapoptotic factors, as well as decreased levels of neurotrophins.

Interpretation

These findings are highly relevant from a clinical perspective because oxygen administration to neonates is often inevitable, and rEpo may serve as an adjunctive neuroprotective therapy. Ann Neurol 2008;64:523–534
Brain involvement in muscular dystrophies with defective dystroglycan glycosylation
Authors: Clement Emma , Mercuri Eugenio , Godfrey Caroline , Smith Janine , Robb Stephanie , Kinali Maria , Straub Volker , Bushby Kate , Manzur Adnan , Talim Beril , Cowan Frances , Quinlivan Ros , Klein Andrea , Longman Cheryl , McWilliam Robert , Topaloglu Haluk , Mein Rachael , Abbs Stephen , North Kathryn , Barkovich A. James , Rutherford Mary , Muntoni Francesco
Published: December 2008

Objective

To assess the range and severity of brain involvement, as assessed by magnetic resonance imaging, in 27 patients with mutations in POMT1 (4), POMT2 (9), POMGnT1 (7), Fukutin (4), or LARGE (3), responsible for muscular dystrophies with abnormal glycosylation of dystroglycan (dystroglycanopathies).

Methods

Blinded review of magnetic resonance imaging brain scans from 27 patients with mutations in 1 of these 5 genes.

Results

Brain magnetic resonance images were normal in 3 of 27 patients; in another 5, only nonspecific abnormalities (ventricular dilatation, periventricular white matter abnormalities, or both) were seen. The remaining 19 patients had a spectrum of structural defects, ranging from complete lissencephaly in patients with Walker–Warburg syndrome to isolated cerebellar involvement. Cerebellar cysts and/or dysplasia and hypoplasia were the predominant features in four patients. Polymicrogyria (11/27) was more severe in the frontoparietal regions in 6, and had an occipitofrontal gradient in 2. Pontine clefts, with an unusual appearance to the corticospinal tracts, were seen in five patients with a muscle‐eye‐brain–like phenotype, three patients with POMGnT1, one with LARGE, and one with POMT2 mutations. Prominent cerebellar cysts were always seen with POMGnT1 mutations, but rarely seen in POMT1 and POMT2. Brainstem and pontine abnormalities were common in patients with POMT2, POMGnT1, and LARGE mutations.

Interpretation

Our results expand the spectrum of brain involvement associated with mutations in LARGE, POMGnT1, POMT1, and POMT2. Pontine clefts were visible in some dystroglycanopathy patients. Infratentorial structures were often affected in isolation, highlighting their susceptibility to involvement in these conditions. Ann Neurol 2008;64:573–582
Randomized, controlled trial of miglustat in Gaucher's disease type 3
Authors: Schiffmann Raphael , FitzGibbon Edmond J. , Harris Chris , DeVile Catherine , Davies Elin H. , Abel Larry , Van Schaik Ivo N. , Benko William S. , Timmons Margaret , Ries Markus , Vellodi Ashok
Published: December 2008

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of miglustat, concomitant with enzyme replacement therapy (ERT), in patients with Gaucher's disease type 3 (GD3).

Methods

This 24‐month, phase II, open‐label clinical trial of miglustat in GD3 was conducted in two phases. During the initial 12 months, patients were randomized 2:1 to receive miglustat or “no miglustat treatment.” The randomized phase was followed by an optional 12‐month extension phase in which all patients received miglustat. All patients received ERT during the 24‐month period. The primary efficacy end points were change from baseline to months 12 and 24 in vertical saccadic eye movement velocity as determined by the peak amplitude versus amplitude regression line slope. Secondary end points included changes in neurological and neuropsychological assessments, pulmonary function tests, liver and spleen organ volumes, hematological and clinical laboratory assessments, and safety evaluations.

Results

Thirty patients were enrolled, of whom 21 were randomized to miglustat and 9 to “no miglustat treatment.” Twenty‐eight patients entered the 12‐month extension phase. No significant between‐group differences in vertical saccadic eye movement velocity or in the other neurological or neuropsychological evaluations were observed. Organ volumes and hematological parameters remained stable in both treatment groups, but improvement in pulmonary function and decrease of chitotriosidase levels were observed with miglustat compared with patients receiving ERT alone.

Interpretation

Miglustat does not appear to have significant benefits on the neurological manifestations of GD3. However, miglustat may have positive effects on systemic disease (pulmonary function and chitotriosidase activity) in addition to ERT in patients with GD3. Ann Neurol 2008;64:514–522