bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Detecting Novelty and Significance
Authors: Ferrari Vera , Bradley Margaret M. , Codispoti Maurizio , Lang Peter J. 
Published: April 2009

AbstractStudies of cognition often use an “oddball” paradigm to study effects of stimulus novelty and significance on information processing. However, an oddball tends to be perceptually more novel than the standard, repeated stimulus as well as more relevant to the ongoing task, making it difficult to disentangle effects due to perceptual novelty and stimulus significance. In the current study, effects of perceptual novelty and significance on ERPs were assessed in a passive viewing context by presenting repeated and novel pictures (natural scenes) that either signaled significant information regarding the current context or not. A fronto-central N2 component was primarily affected by perceptual novelty, whereas a centro-parietal P3 component was modulated by both stimulus significance and novelty. The data support an interpretation that the N2 reflects perceptual fluency and is attenuated when a current stimulus matches an active memory representation and that the amplitude of the P3 reflects stimulus meaning and significance.
The Role of Right and Left Parietal Lobes in the Conceptual Processing of Numbers
Authors: Cappelletti Marinella , Lee Hwee Ling , Freeman Elliot D. , Price Cathy J. 
Published: April 2009

Abstract
Neuropsychological and functional imaging studies have associated the conceptual processing of numbers with bilateral parietal regions (including intraparietal sulcus). However, the processes driving these effects remain unclear because both left and right posterior parietal regions are activated by many other conceptual, perceptual, attention, and response-selection processes. To dissociate parietal activation that is number-selective from parietal activation related to other stimulus or response-selection processes, we used fMRI to compare numbers and object names during exactly the same conceptual and perceptual tasks while factoring out activations correlating with response times. We found that right parietal activation was higher for conceptual decisions on numbers relative to the same tasks on object names, even when response time effects were fully factored out. In contrast, left parietal activation for numbers was equally involved in conceptual processing of object names. We suggest that left parietal activation for numbers reflects a range of processes, including the retrieval of learnt facts that are also involved in conceptual decisions on object names. In contrast, number selectivity in right parietal cortex reflects processes that are more involved in conceptual decisions on numbers than object names. Our results generate a new set of hypotheses that have implications for the design of future behavioral and functional imaging studies of patients with left and right parietal damage.
Mechanisms and Dynamics of Cortical Motor Inhibition in the Stop-signal Paradigm: A TMS Study
Authors: van den Wildenberg Wery P. M. , Burle Borís , Vidal Franck , van der Molen Maurits W. , Ridderinkhof K. Richard , Hasbroucq Thierry 
Published: April 2009

AbstractThe ability to stop ongoing motor responses in a split-second is a vital element of human cognitive control and flexibility that relies in large part on prefrontal cortex. We used the stop-signal paradigm to elucidate the engagement of primary motor cortex (M1) in inhibiting an ongoing voluntary motor response. The stop-signal paradigm taps the ability to flexibly countermand ongoing voluntary behavior upon presentation of a stop signal. We applied single-pulse TMS to M1 at several intervals following the stop signal to track the time course of excitability of the motor system related to generating and stopping a manual response. Electromyography recorded from the flexor pollicis brevis allowed quantification of the excitability of the corticospinal tract and the involvement of intracortical GABABergic circuits within M1, indexed respectively by the amplitude of the motor-evoked potential and the duration of the late part of the cortical silent period (SP). The results extend our knowledge of the neural basis of inhibitory control in three ways. First, the results revealed a dynamic interplay between response activation and stopping processes at M1 level during stop-signal inhibition of an ongoing response. Second, increased excitability of inhibitory interneurons that drives SP prolongation was evident as early as 134 msec following the instruction to stop. Third, this pattern was followed by a stop-related reduction of corticospinal excitability implemented around 180 after the stop signal. These findings point to the recruitment of GABABergic intracortical inhibitory circuits within M1 in stop-signal inhibition and support the notion of stopping as an active act of control.
Individual Differences in Face Cognition: Brain–Behavior Relationships
Authors: Herzmann Grit , Kunina Olga , Sommer Werner , Wilhelm Oliver 
Published: April 2009

Abstract
Individual differences in perceiving, learning, and recognizing faces, summarized under the term face cognition, have been shown on the behavioral and brain level, but connections between these levels have rarely been made. We used ERPs in structural equation models to determine the contributions of neurocognitive processes to individual differences in the accuracy and speed of face cognition as established by Wilhelm, Herzmann, Kunina, Danthiir, Schacht, and Sommer [Individual differences in face cognition, in press]. For 85 participants, we measured several ERP components and, in independent tasks and sessions, assessed face cognition abilities and other cognitive abilities, including immediate and delayed memory, mental speed, general cognitive ability, and object cognition. Individual differences in face cognition were unrelated to domain-general visual processes (P100) and to processes involved with memory encoding (Dm component). The ability of face cognition accuracy was moderately related to neurocognitive indicators of structural face encoding (latency of the N170) and of activating representations of both faces and person-related knowledge (latencies and amplitudes of the early and late repetition effects, ERE/N250 and LRE/N400, respectively). The ability of face cognition speed was moderately related to the amplitudes of the ERE and LRE. Thus, a substantial part of individual differences in face cognition is explained by the speed and efficiency of activating memory representations of faces and person-related knowledge. These relationships are not moderated by individual differences in established cognitive abilities.
Evidence for Telomerase Activation in VSMCs Exposed to Hyperglycemic and Hyperhomocysteinemic Conditions
Authors: Jacob Theresa , Hingorani Anil , Ascher Enrico 
Published: April 2009

Purpose While diabetes and homocysteinemia have been demonstrated to be independent risk factors for progression of vascular disease, the activation of telomerase has not been linked to the potent effects of high levels of homocysteine (Hcy) and glucose on vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC). We examined the proliferative response of VSMCs, resulting from hyperglycemia and hyperhomocysteinemia and their effects on telomerase activity. Methods Primary cultures of VSMC from human aorta and arteries were used in this experiment from 3rd −5th passages. Hcy or/and glucose were added to the cell culture media in doses equivalent to plasma levels of Hcy in patients with moderate, high homocysteinemia, or physiologically high concentrations of glucose as seen in diabetics. The modified telomeric repeat amplification protocol was used for telomerase activity assay. Cytotoxicity, viability, proliferation, protein phosphorylation, were determined in cultures treated and not treated with Hcy and glucose. Results The mitogenic effect of Hcy and glucose on VSMC, independently and together, was observed at 48 hours after treatment. The viable cell numbers were significantly increased at doses comparable to plasma levels of Hcy in hyperhomocysteinemia, as compared to untreated cultures ( p < 0.01). Cells exposed to high levels of glucose also exhibited an increased proliferation response ( p = 0.01). Telomerase activity was detected in all sets of VSMC cultures exposed to high levels of glucose or/and Hcy ( p < 0.01). However, a significant difference was not observed in telomerase activity, when high Hcy or high glucose was used alone or in concert. Significant dual phosphorylation of p38 MAPK was observed in treated cultures but it did not correlate with the telomerase activity detected. Conclusion These data establish a link with telomerase activation and the mitogenic effect of hyperhomocysteinemia and hyperglycemia.
Evaluation of Point-of-care Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time Testing by Comparison to Laboratory-based Assay for Control of Intravenous Heparin
Authors: Douglas Alexander D. , Jefferis Jo , Sharma Rishi , Parker Rachel , Handa Ashok , Chantler Jonathan 
Published: April 2009

Introduction Patients on intravenous heparin require regular activated partial thromboplastin time monitoring. Laboratory-based activated partial thromboplastin time assays necessitate a delay between blood sampling and dose adjustment. Point-of-care testing could permit immediate dose adjustments, potentially enabling tighter control of anticoagulation. Aim To assess equivalence of activated partial thromboplastin time measured by conventional laboratory assay and by a novel proprietary point-of-care testing system (Hemochron Response, ITC, Thoratec Corporation, Edison, NJ) among surgical ward patients on intravenous heparin. Methods A total of 39 blood samples from patients on intravenous heparin were tested with both laboratory and point-of-care assays. Assay equivalence was assessed by Bland-Altman analysis. Results. Point-of-care measurements exceeded laboratory activated partial thromboplastin time by a mean of 15 seconds (standard deviation 19). In 19 cases (49%), the point-of-care measurement would have resulted in different heparin dosing from the laboratory activated partial thromboplastin time. Conclusions The Hemochron Response system is not sufficiently accurate for routine ward use compared with laboratory activated partial thromboplastin time assays.
Platelet Function following Acute Cerebral Ischemia
Authors: Smout Jonathan , Dyker Alexander , Cleanthis Marcus , Ford Gary , Kesteven Patrick , Stansby Gererd 
Published: April 2009

Background Studies have previously identified increased levels of platelet activation following acute ischemic stroke. In order to evaluate new antiplatelet agents and their combinations, there is a need for accurate measures of platelet activation. Methods Blood was taken from 17 patients within 24 hours of an acute ischemic stroke, and then at 3, 7, 14 and 42 days. For comparison, a group of 18 stable arteriopaths had identical tests performed. Platelet aggregation was measured using a free platelet counting technique, and platelet surface P-selectin and monocyte platelet aggregates (MPAs) were measured using flow cytometry. Soluble P-selectin and D-dimers were measured by an enzyme linked immune assay. Results The initial level of MPAs was significantly raised in the stroke patients compared with the stable patients ( p = 0.04, 14.2% vs. 9.3%); however, this difference was not significantly higher than later study points (14.2%, 10.1%, 9.3%, 11.9%, 11.3%; days 1, 3, 7, 14 and 42 respectively. Day 1 vs. day 7 p = 0.07 ANOVA). No changes in P-selectin or platelet aggregation were identified. D-dimer levels were significantly higher on day 7 than day 42 ( p < 0.01), and fibrinogen levels were elevated on both days 3 and 14 compared with day 42. Fibrinogen levels were not elevated compared with stable patients. Conclusions MPA levels are elevated following an acute ischemic stroke compared to stable patients, but no significant change was seen with other platelet markers. This study suggests MPAs are a more sensitive marker of platelet activation than either P-selectin or aggregation.
Nurse teacherhood and the categories influencing it
Authors: Holopainen Arja , Tossavainen Kerttu , Kärnä-Lin Eija 
Published: April 2009

Abstract Nurse teacherhood is composed of many factors. It includes nurse teachers’ tasks and different multidimensional roles and also nurse teachers’ individual experiences of being a nurse teacher. Nurse teachers’ experiences of nurse teacherhood depend on the meanings they give to the different factors. In other words, there are not only one but also several interpretations of what nurse teacherhood is. These interpretations affect what is important for each nurse teacher in their own nurse teacherhood and how satisfied they are with their profession. This paper is part of a larger study examining how Finnish nurse teachers experience their nurse teacherhood in polytechnics. The purpose of this paper was to describe nurse teacherhood during the years 2003 and 2004, when polytechnics and thus also nurse education were actively being developed in Finland. Nurse teachers ( N = 34) were interviewed and the data were analysed using the grounded theory method. The categories describing nurse teacherhood were: process of change in the organisation, operating culture of the health care working community, professional self-esteem, focus of competence, relationship with students, the future in one’s profession and requirements for staying in the profession. The core category was commitment to nurse teacherhood. Nurse teachers’ individual experiences of the significance of the categories describing teacherhood were reflected by their level of commitment to teacherhood. Nurse teachers, whose commitment to nurse teacherhood was weak, were especially unsatisfied with changes related to their teacherhood. Nurse teachers’ conceptions of their future as nurse teachers were significant in terms of the direction in which they were developing their own teacherhood. Some nurse teachers who were weakly committed to nurse teacherhood considered it unlikely that they would continue in the profession in the future.
Cardiac rehabilitation: Adding years to life and life to years
Authors: Thompson David R 
Published: April 2009

Abstract Cardiac rehabilitation is an integral component of comprehensive cardiac care and is effective in reducing morbidity and mortality and improving quality of life. However, despite a 50-year-history and extensive evidence base attesting to its clinical and cost-effectiveness, including adding years to life and life to years, and exhortations that its implementation should be a key priority, the majority of cardiac patients do not receive rehabilitation. There is a comparative dearth of funding and wide variation in service provision, with a health care system that often fails to address issues such as sub-optimal referral, enrolment and completion, particularly amongst certain potential user groups that could benefit. This paper reviews these issues and suggests ways of overcoming the obstacles identified. It also highlights some of the knowledge gaps and areas that warrant further research.
Cardiac rehabilitation – Past to Present
Authors: Evans Lynda , Probert Heather , Shuldham Caroline 
Published: April 2009

Abstract Cardiac rehabilitation and secondary prevention can promote recovery, reduce coronary events and improve quality of life in many people with heart disease. Traditionally provided for people with coronary heart disease, there is scope to have provision for a range of people, both young and old, and including those with heart failure, valve disease or with an internal cardiac defibrillator. At its best, cardiac rehabilitation spans the whole pathway of care, beginning before admission to hospital and continuing long after, with ongoing management of lifestyle changes. Guidelines are available based on best evidence, and programmes focus on the whole person and address physical, psychological and social well-being. They incorporate health education, risk factor modification, social support and exercise. Programmes can be run in the community, home or hospital. To ensure effective cardiac rehabilitation for each patient, members of the multi-disciplinary team are challenged to work together to meet the individual needs of patients and their family. The standard of care should be monitored through audit so that improvements can be made.
Brumadoite, a new copper tellurate hydrate, from Brumado, Bahia, Brazil
Authors: Atencio D. , Roberts A. C. , Matioli P. A. , Stirling J. A. R. , Venance K. E. , Doherty W. , Stanley C. J. , Rowe R. , Carpenter G. J. C. , Coutinho J. M. V. 
Published: April 2009

AbstractBrumadoite, ideally Cu3Te6+O4(OH)4-5H2O, is a new mineral from Pedra Preta mine, Serra das Eguas. Brumado, Bahia, Brazil. It occurs as microcrystalline aggregates both on and, rarely, pseudomorphous after coarse-grained magnesite, associated with mottramite and quartz. Crystals are platy, subhedral. 1—2 μm in size. Brumadoite is blue (near RHS 114B), has a pale blue streak and a vitreous lustre. It is transparent to translucent and does not fluoresce. The empirical formula is (Cu2.90Pb0.04Ca0.01)Σ2.95 (Te0.936+Si0.05)Σ0.98O3.92(OH)3.84.5.24H2O. Infrared spectra clearly show both (OH) and H2O. Microchemical spot tests using a KI solution show that brumadoite has tellurium in the 6+ state. The mineral is monoclinic, P2/m or P21. Unit-cell parameters refined from X-ray powder data are a 8.629(2) Å, b 5.805(2) Å, c 7.654(2) Å,β 0 103.17(2)°, F 373.3(2) Å3, Z= 2. The eight strongest X-ray powder-diffraction lines [d in Å,(I),(hkl)] are: 8.432,(100),(100); 3.162,(66),(2̄02); 2.385,(27),(220); 2.291,(12),(l̄22); 1.916,(11),(312); 1.666,(14),(4̄22,114); 1.452,(10),(323,040); 1.450,(10),(422,403). The name is for the type locality, Brumado, Bahia, Brazil. The new mineral species has been approved by the CNMNC (IMA 2008-028).
Polyhedral serpentine: a spherical analogue of polygonal serpentine?
Authors: Cressey G. , Cressey B. A. , Wicks F. J. 
Published: April 2009

AbstractVugs in late hydrothermal veins in the serpentinite at Gew-graze, Lizard, Cornwall, UK, contain serpentine spheres ≤0.7 mm in diameter composed of a crystallographically controlled radial array of well crystallized lizardite-1T crystals. Examinations with optical and scanning electron microscopy reveal that the spheres actually have polyhedral morphology. The polyhedral facets at the sphere surface are the (0001) terminations of individual single crystals of lizardite. Each lizardite crystal is a hexagonal prism and tapers inwards to the core. The angle from prism axis to prism axis is always ∼24°, and this angle is consistent even though individual prisms have not maintained contact during growth. The space between prisms is filled by smaller crystals of lizardite in more random orientations, forming a solid sphere. Collectively, the tapering prisms form a growth array that produces a surface tessellation consisting of mainly 6-fold neighbours, but with some 5-fold arrangements to accommodate a closed spherical structure. A ‘buckybalF, modified by adding face-centring points to each hexagon and pentagon, provides a useful model to describe the space filling adopted by the polyhedral lizardite spheres. Cross sections (close to an equatorial plane) through these polyhedral spheres resemble cross sections of polygonal serpentine, with 15 sectors at 24° to each other, though very much larger in diameter.
Peripheral mural cell recruitment requires cell-autonomous heparan sulfate
Authors: Stenzel Denise , Nye Emma , Nisancioglu Maya , Adams Ralf H. , Yamaguchi Yu , Gerhardt Holger 
Published: April 2009

AbstractBlood vessel maturation and stability require recruitment of mural cells (MCs) to the nascent vessel. Loss or detachment of MCs causes vascular dysfunction in diseases. N-sulfation of heparan sulfate (HS) is required for platelet-derived growth factor B (PDGF-B) retention and platelet-derived growth factor receptor-β (PDGFR-β) signaling during MC recruitment. To analyze the specific role of MC-derived HS in this process, we inactivated HS synthesis in MCs. MC-specific loss of HS causes embryonic lethality associated with vascular patterning defects, edema, and hemorrhages during late gestation. MC recruitment in the skin is impaired, correlating with defective PDGFR-β and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β)–SMAD signaling. Accumulation of rounded cells positive for MC markers close to the vessels indicates defective polarization and migration of local MC progenitors. In contrast, MC recruitment and signaling in the central nervous system (CNS) are unaffected by MC HS loss. Our results suggest that HS is selectively required in a cell-autonomous manner, acting in cis with PDGFR-β and TGF-β receptors during induction/polarization and migration of local progenitor cells to the nascent vessel. Once MCs are in contact with the vessel, as during CNS vascularization, endothelial HS appears sufficient to facilitate PDGFR-β activation in trans.
Phase 1 multicenter dose-escalation study of ezatiostat hydrochloride (TLK199 tablets), a novel glutathione analog prodrug, in patients with myelodysplastic syndrome
Authors: Raza Azra , Galili Naomi , Smith Scott , Godwin John , Lancet Jeffrey , Melchert Magda , Jones Marsha , Keck James G. , Meng Lisa , Brown Gail L. , List Alan 
Published: April 2009

AbstractPhase 1 testing of ezatiostat, a glutathione S-transferase P1-1 inhibitor, for the treatment of myelodysplastic syndrome was conducted in a multidose-escalation study. Patients received 10 dose levels (200, 400, 1000, 1400, 2000, 2400, 3000, 4000, 5000, and 6000 mg) of ezatiostat tablets in divided doses on days 1 to 7 of a 21-day cycle for a maximum of 8 cycles. The safety and pharmacokinetics of ezatiostat were evaluated. Forty-five patients with low to intermediate-2 International Prognostic Scoring System risk myelodysplastic syndrome were enrolled. No dose-limiting toxicities were observed. The most common grade 1 or 2, respectively, treatment-related adverse events were nonhematologic: nausea (56%, 9%), diarrhea (36%, 7%), vomiting (24%, 7%), abdominal pain (9%, 0%), constipation (4%, 9%), anorexia (3%, 7%), and dyspepsia (3%, 7%). Concentration of the primary active metabolite, TLK236, increased proportionate to ezatiostat dosage. Seventeen hematologic improvement (HI) responses by International Working Group criteria were observed at dose levels of 200 to 6000 mg/day with 11 HI responses at doses of 4000 to 6000 mg/day. HI responses occurred in all lineages including 3 bilineage and 1 complete cytogenetic response. Decreased number of red blood cell and platelet transfusions and in some cases transfusion independence were attained. Extended dose schedules of ezatiostat tablets are under investigation. This study was registered at http://www.clinicaltrials.gov as NCT00280631.