bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Marketing and Reputation in the Services Sector
Authors: De Jager Johan , Soontiens Werner
Published: December 2011

Over the past few decades the tertiary sector has developed from a predominantly inward focussed industry serving public interest to an internationalised and commercially competitive industry. Resulting from this fundamental change is a drive to better understand the most prominent dimensions that impact on internationalisation, more particularly, the expectations and experiences of students. Although some of these can be argued to be country specific, and thus differentiate between markets, others are universal and impact on the overall industry. One of the latter is a pressure to consider and treat students as clients introducing all the dynamics of service delivery and management. The primary objective of this paper is to identify the most important variables related to marketing and reputation issues when selecting a university in South-Africa and compare the same for Singapore students. This study revealed that the most important consideration for the South African sample, regarding marketing and reputation related variables when choosing an institution of higher education, is the academic reputation of the institution, while the marketing activities were regarded as priority by the Singaporean sample.
Botswana’s Novel Approaches for Knowledge-Based Economy Facilitation
Authors: Bwalya Kelvin Joseph
Published: December 2011

The Vision 2016, which is a set of strategic plans desired to position Botswana at the completive edge of the socio-economic hierarchy in Africa, is being implemented with concerted efforts from both the private and the public sector, including ordinary citizens. One of the major motivations for drawing this strategy has been the desire to transform Botswana from a resource and industry-based (e.g. agriculture and diamond mining) to knowledge-based economy. This has come from the realisation that in order to compete favourably at a global scale, there is need to put in place efficient knowledge value chains. To this course, several initiatives have been devised and/or implemented by both the government and the public sector. This article surveys the fundamental concepts on which this paradigm shift is hinged and brings out the different issues, initiatives and policies (such as Information and Communications Technology development, nurturing of an appropriate human resource base by way of strategic human resource development plans, investment in intellectual capital, etc.) that have been done so far in Botswana. The article, however, does not claim that it offers a compendium of existing programs towards a knowledge-based economy initiated by Botswana. The article posits that although significant strides have been scored in Botswana’s efforts towards a knowledge-based economy, a lot more needs to be done if it were to compete favourably at an international stage.
Transaction Costs in Inter-Organizational Systems
Authors: Essig Michael , Boerner Raphael
Published: December 2011

Besides describing the core elements of TCE, this paper also shows the application of this concept for purchasing and supply decisions. Therefore, we do have a closer look on outsourcing problems, sourcing strategy decisions, and information technology/e-procurement adoption.
Information Management for Public Budget Decision Making
Authors: Lu Yaotai , Thai Khi V.
Published: December 2011

Information is very important throughout the government budgetary process which consists of budget preparation, budget appropriations, budget execution, and auditing and evaluation. When their budgets are prepared, agencies need various sources of data including those related to all types of government revenues and expenditures, economic conditions, agency needs, and services to provide. In each phase of the budgetary process, data are needed for decision making concerning the amount of money to allocate, the programs to establish, outputs to measure, performance to evaluate, and goals and objectives to accomplish. In the United States, these data have been provided via various types of budgetary techniques, including line-item budgeting, program budgeting, planning-program budgeting systems, performance budgeting and zero-based budgeting.
Technology Bundling
Authors: Yap Alexander Y. , Synn Wonhi
Published: December 2011

This chapter focuses on the theme of service innovation in the electronic brokerage sector. The discussion will cover the theories of “technology bundling” and how bundling together various technologies creates added value for the end-user. The proliferation of different e-trading systems raises the question of which systems provide better and more comprehensive bundled services to online stock traders. Many online brokers now provide low-cost transactions and financial research capabilities, so where is the next level of innovation? The objective of this chapter is to show that several innovations in broker e-services are critical in the following areas: a) how order processes are efficiently managed in financial e-markets; b) how responsive e-trading systems are in handling trading rules and regulations; c) how different systems address unique niches in financial e-markets; and d) improving systems stability and reliability. Combining different systems and technology features in these areas allow brokers to give much better services to their clients.
A LabVIEW-based Remote Laboratory
Authors: You Yuqiu
Published: December 2011

Current technology enables the remote access of equipment and instruments via the Internet. While more and more remote control solutions have been applied to industry via Local Area Networks (LANs), Wide Area Networks (WANs), and the Internet, there exist requirements for the applications of such technologies in the academic environment (Salzmann, Latchman, Gillet, and Crisalle, 2003). One typical application of remote control solutions is the development of a remote virtual laboratory. The development of a remote-laboratory facility will enable participation in laboratory experiences by distance students. The ability to offer remote students lab experiences is vital to effective learning in the areas of engineering and technology. This chapter introduces a LabVIEW-based remote wet process control laboratory developed for manufacturing automation courses. The system architecture, hardware integration, hardware and software interfacing, programming tools, lab development based on the system, and future enhancement are demonstrated and discussed in the chapter.
Sustainable e-Recruiting Portals
Authors: Furtmüller Elfi , Wilderom Celeste , van Dick Rolf
Published: December 2011

Since most e-recruiting portals suffer from outdated applicant profiles and receive little user return as soon as applicants have found a new job, in this study, the authors explore how to motivate applicants to keep their profiles up-to-date and stay connected with one specific recruiting portal throughout their careers. The authors interviewed applicants, system analysts and programmers of an Austrian e-recruiting portal. Narratives showing striking differences between these three stakeholders’ interpretation of system requirements for long-term usage are discussed. The identified requirements point to niche recruiting: integrating social network and community features for specified user segments sharing a similar social identity and fostering pre-existing offline ties among users for career purposes. Implications are sketched for more sustainable e-recruiting research, design and development.
Social Search and Personalization Through Demographic Filtering
Authors: Taha Kamal , Elmasri Ramez
Published: December 2011

Most existing personalized search systems do not consider group profiling. Group profiling can be an efficient retrieval mechanism, where a user profile is inferred from the profile of the social groups to which the user belongs. The authors propose an XML search system called DemoFilter which employs the concept of group profiling. DemoFilter simplifies the personalization process by pre-defining various categories of social groups and then identifying their preferences. Social groups are characterized based on demographic, ethnic, cultural, religious, age, or other characteristics. DemoFilter can be used for various practical applications, such as Internet or other businesses that market preference-driven products. In the ontology, the preferences of a social group are identified from published studies about the social group. They experimentally evaluate the search effectiveness of DemoFilter and compare it to an existing search engine.
Achieving Quality Patient-Ventilator Management: Advancing Evidence-Based Nursing Care
Authors: Chlan Linda , Tracy Mary F. , Grossbach Irene
Published: December 2011

This article presents suggestions for nurses to gain skill, competence, and comfort in caring for critically ill patients receiving mechanical ventilatory support, with a specific focus on education strategies and building communication skills with these challenging nonverbal patients. Engaging in evidence-based practice projects at the unit level and participating in or leading research studies are key ways nurses can contribute to improving outcomes for patients receiving mechanical ventilation. Suggestions are offered for evidence-based practice projects and possible research studies to improve outcomes and advance the science in an effort to achieve quality patient-ventilator management in intensive care units.
Amelioration of Collagen-Induced Arthritis by a Novel S1P1 Antagonist with Immunomodulatory Activities
Authors: Fujii Yasuyuki , Hirayama Takehiro , Ohtake Hidenori , Ono Naoya , Inoue Tomoyuki , Sakurai Takanobu , Takayama Tetsuo , Matsumoto Kayo , Tsukahara Narutoshi , Hidano Shinya , Harima Nobue , Nakazawa Kiyoshi , Igarashi Yasuyuki , Goitsuka Ryo
Published: December 2011

Sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) regulates lymphocyte trafficking through the type 1 sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor (S1P1) and participates in many pathological conditions, including autoimmune diseases. We developed a novel S1P1-selective antagonist, TASP0277308, which is structurally unrelated to S1P. This antagonist competitively inhibited S1P-induced cellular responses, such as chemotaxis and receptor internalization. Furthermore, differing from previously reported S1P1 antagonists, TASP0277308 demonstrated in vivo activities to induce lymphopenia, a block in T cell egress from the thymus, displacement of marginal zone B cells, and upregulation of CD69 expression on both T and B cells, all of which recapitulate phenotypes of S1P1-deficient lymphocytes. In a mouse collagen-induced arthritis model, TASP0277308 significantly suppressed the development of arthritis, even after the onset of disease. These findings provide the first chemical evidence to our knowledge that S1P1 antagonism is responsible for immunosuppression in the treatment of autoimmune diseases and also resolve the discrepancies between genetic and chemical studies on the functions of S1P1 in lymphocytes.
Direct Reduction of Antigen Receptor Expression in Polyclonal B Cell Populations Developing In Vivo Results in Light Chain Receptor Editing
Authors: Shen Shixue , Manser Tim
Published: December 2011

Secondary Ab V region gene segment rearrangement, termed receptor editing, is a major mechanism contributing to B lymphocyte self-tolerance. However, the parameters that determine whether a B cell undergoes editing are a current subject of debate. We tested the role that the level of BCR expression plays in the regulation of receptor editing in a polyclonal population of B cells differentiating in vivo. Expression of a short hairpin RNA for κ L chain RNA in B cells resulted in reduction in levels of this RNA and surface BCRs. Strikingly, fully mature and functional B cells that developed in vivo and efficiently expressed the short hairpin RNA predominantly expressed BCRs containing λ light chains. This shift in L chain repertoire was accompanied by inhibition of development, increased Rag gene expression, and increased λ V gene segment-cleavage events at the immature B cell stage. These data demonstrated that reducing the translation of BCRs that are members of the natural repertoire at the immature B cell stage is sufficient to promote editing.
Pseudomonas aeruginosa Alkaline Protease Blocks Complement Activation via the Classical and Lectin Pathways
Authors: Laarman Alexander J. , Bardoel Bart W. , Ruyken Maartje , Fernie Job , Milder Fin J. , van Strijp Jos A. G. , Rooijakkers Suzan H. M.
Published: December 2011

The complement system rapidly detects and kills Gram-negative bacteria and supports bacterial killing by phagocytes. However, bacterial pathogens exploit several strategies to evade detection by the complement system. The alkaline protease (AprA) of Pseudomonas aeruginosa has been associated with bacterial virulence and is known to interfere with complement-mediated lysis of erythrocytes, but its exact role in bacterial complement escape is unknown. In this study, we analyzed how AprA interferes with complement activation and whether it could block complement-dependent neutrophil functions. We found that AprA potently blocked phagocytosis and killing of Pseudomonas by human neutrophils. Furthermore, AprA inhibited opsonization of bacteria with C3b and the formation of the chemotactic agent C5a. AprA specifically blocked C3b deposition via the classical and lectin pathways, whereas the alternative pathway was not affected. Serum degradation assays revealed that AprA degrades both human C1s and C2. However, repletion assays demonstrated that the mechanism of action for complement inhibition is cleavage of C2. In summary, we showed that P. aeruginosa AprA interferes with classical and lectin pathway-mediated complement activation via cleavage of C2.
IL-22 Is Required for Imiquimod-Induced Psoriasiform Skin Inflammation in Mice
Authors: Van Belle Astrid B. , de Heusch Magali , Lemaire Muriel M. , Hendrickx Emilie , Warnier Guy , Dunussi-Joannopoulos Kyri , Fouser Lynette A. , Renauld Jean-Christophe , Dumoutier Laure
Published: December 2011

Psoriasis is a common chronic autoimmune skin disease of unknown cause that involves dysregulated interplay between immune cells and keratinocytes. IL-22 is a cytokine produced by the TH1, TH17, and TH22 subsets that are functionally implicated in the psoriatic pathology. We assessed the role of IL-22 in a mouse model where psoriasiform skin inflammation is triggered by topical application of the TLR7/8 agonist imiquimod. At the macroscopic level, scaly skin lesions induced by daily applications of imiquimod in wild-type mice were almost totally absent in IL-22–deficient mice or in mice treated with a blocking anti–IL-22 Ab. At the microscopic level, IL-22–deficient mice showed a dramatic decrease in the development of pustules and a partial decrease in acanthosis. At the molecular level, the absence or inhibition of IL-22 strongly decreased the expression of chemotactic factors such as CCL3 and CXCL3 and of biomarkers such as S100A8, S100A7, and keratin 14, which reflect the antimicrobial and hyperproliferative responses of keratinocytes. IL-22 also played a major role in neutrophil infiltration after imiquimod treatment. IL-23 was required for IL-22 production, and γδ TCR lymphocytes represented the major source of IL-22 in lymph nodes from imiquimod-treated mice. However, T cells were not absolutely required for IL-22 production because imiquimod-induced IL-22 expression in the skin is still preserved in Rag2−/− mice. Taken together, our data show that IL-22 is required for psoriasis-like lesions in the mouse imiquimod model and is produced by both T cells and innate immune cells.
A Structural Basis for Antigen Presentation by the MHC Class Ib Molecule, Qa-1b
Authors: Zeng Li , Sullivan Lucy C. , Vivian Julian P. , Walpole Nicholas G. , Harpur Christopher M. , Rossjohn Jamie , Clements Craig S. , Brooks Andrew G.
Published: December 2011

The primary function of the monomorphic MHC class Ib molecule Qa-1b is to present peptides derived from the leader sequences of other MHC class I molecules for recognition by the CD94-NKG2 receptors expressed by NK and T cells. Whereas the mode of peptide presentation by its ortholog HLA-E, and subsequent recognition by CD94-NKG2A, is known, the molecular basis of Qa-1b function is unclear. We have assessed the interaction between Qa-1b and CD94-NKG2A and shown that they interact with an affinity of 17 μM. Furthermore, we have determined the structure of Qa-1b bound to the leader sequence peptide, Qdm (AMAPRTLLL), to a resolution of 1.9 Å and compared it with that of HLA-E. The crystal structure provided a basis for understanding the restricted peptide repertoire of Qa-1b. Whereas the Qa-1b-AMAPRTLLL complex was similar to that of HLA-E, significant sequence and structural differences were observed between the respective Ag-binding clefts. However, the conformation of the Qdm peptide bound by Qa-1b was very similar to that of peptide bound to HLA-E. Although a number of conserved innate receptors can recognize heterologous ligands from other species, the structural differences between Qa-1b and HLA-E manifested in CD94-NKG2A ligand recognition being species specific despite similarities in peptide sequence and conformation. Collectively, our data illustrate the structural homology between Qa-1b and HLA-E and provide a structural basis for understanding peptide repertoire selection and the specificity of the interaction of Qa-1b with CD94-NKG2 receptors.
Hypertension Prevalence, Awareness, Treatment and Control, and Associated Factors: Results from a National Survey, Jordan
Authors: Jaddou H. Y. , Batieha A. M. , Khader Y. S. , Kanaan A. H. , El-Khateeb M. S. , Ajlouni K. M.
Published: December 2011

The study examined prevalence, awareness, treatment and control of hypertension (HTN), and associated factors and to evaluate the trend in hypertension between 2009 (period 2) and 1994–1998 (period 1). A national sample of 4117 adults aged 25 years and older was selected. Prevalence rate of HTN (SBP ≥ 140 or DBP ≥ 90 or on antihypertensive therapy) was 32.3% and was higher than the 29.4% prevalence rate reported in period 1. Prevalence rate was significantly higher among males, older age groups, least educated, obese, and diabetics than their counterparts. The rate of awareness among hypertensives was 56.1% and was higher than the 38.8% rate reported form period 1 data. Awareness was positively associated with age, smoking, and diabetes for both men and women, and with level of education and body mass index for men. Rate of treatment for HTN among aware patients was 63.3% and was significantly higher than the 52.8% rate reported in period1. Control rate of HTN among treated hypertensives was 39.6%; significantly higher than the 27.9% control rate in period 1. Control of HTN was positively associated with age but only for women. In conclusion, HTN is still on the rise in Jordan, and levels of awareness and control are below the optimal levels.
Combined Spinal Epidural Anesthesia in Achondroplastic Dwarf for Femur Surgery
Authors: Bakhshi Rochana Girish , Jagtap Sheetal R.
Published: December 2011

Achondroplasia is the commonest form of short-limbed dwarfism and occurs in 1:26,000- 40,000 live births. This is an autosomal dominant disorder with abnormal endochondral ossification whereas periosteal and intramembranous ossification are normal. The basic abnormality is a disturbance of cartilage formation mainly at the epiphyseal growth plates and at the base of the skull. The anesthetic management of achondroplastic dwarfs is a challenge to the anesthesiologist. Both regional as well as general anesthesia have their individual risks and consequences. We report a case of an achondroplastic dwarf in whom combined spinal epidural anesthesia was used for fixation of a fractured femur. The patient had undergone previous femur surgery under general anesthesia since he had been informed that spinal anesthesia could be very problematic. There was no technical difficulty encountered during the procedure and an adequate level was achieved with low-dose local anesthetics without any problem. Postoperative pain relief was offered for three consecutive postoperative days using epidural tramadol. We discuss the anesthetic issues and highlight the role of combined spinal epidural anesthesia with low-dose local anesthetics in this patient. This approach also helped in early ambulation and postoperative pain relief.
Sickle Cell Protection from Malaria
Authors: Eridani Sandro
Published: December 2011

A linkage between presence of Sickle Haemoglobin (HbS) and protection from malaria infection and clinical manifestations in certain areas was suspected from early observations and progressively elucidated by more recent studies. Research has confirmed the abovementioned connection, but also clarified how such protection may be abolished by coexistence of sickle cell trait (HbS trait) and alpha thalassemia, which may explain the relatively low incidence of HbS trait in the Mediterranean. The mechanisms of such protective effect are now being investigated: factors of genetic, molecular and immunological nature are prominent. As for genetic factors attention is given to the role of the red blood cell (RBC) membrane complement regulatory proteins as polymorphisms of these components seem to be associated with resistance to severe malaria; genetic ligands like the Duffy group blood antigen, necessary for erythrocytic invasion, and human protein CD36, a major receptor for P. falciparum-infected RBC‘s, are also under scrutiny: attention is focused also on plasmodium erythrocyte-binding antigens, which bind to RBC surface components. Genome-wide linkage and association studies are now carried out too, in order to identify genes associated with malaria resistance. Only a minor role is attributed to intravascular sickling, phagocytosis and haemolysis, while specific molecular mechanisms are the object of intensive research: among these a decisive role is played by a biochemical sequence, involving activation of haeme oxygenase (HMO-1), whose effect appears mediated by carbon monoxide (CO). A central role in protection from malaria is also played by immunological factors, which may stimulate antibody production to plasmodium antigens in the early years of life; the role of agents like pathogenic CD8 T-cells has been suggested while the effects of molecular actions on the immunity mechanism are presently investigated. It thus appears that protection from malaria can be explained by interaction of different factors: the elucidation of such mechanisms may prove valuable for the prevention and treatment strategy of a disease which still affects large parts of the world.
Clinical Significance of P53 and Bcl-2 in Acute Myeloid Leukemia Patients of Eastern India
Authors: Sahu Geetaram , Jena Rabindra Kumar
Published: December 2011

The frequency of p53 and Bcl-2 protein expression in 100 newly diagnosed and 10 relapsed acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients was analyzed by immunocytochemistry (ICC). The Kaplan-Meier method was used for univariate and multivariate statistical analysis to assess the relationship between p53, Bcl-2 and clinico-hematologic feature with respect to overall survival (OS) using SPSS statistical software. No statistical significance was found in univariate analysis (p = 0.60). However, when the subgroups of patients (+1, +2, +3 and +4) were compared, expression of p53 and Bcl-2 protein (1–10%, 11–30%, 31–50% and >50%) was statistically significant (p < 0.05). However, in multivariate analysis, p53, immunopositivity was independently associated with a shorter overall survival (OS) (p = 0.038) while Bcl-2 immunopositivity was associated with longer overall survival (OS) (p = 0.002). Our finding shows that p53 and Bcl-2 protein overexpression is a strong indicator of response to chemotherapy and overall survival. This study reports for the first time AML in patients from Eastern India.
The TWINS exospheric neutral H-density distribution under solar minimum conditions
Authors: Zoennchen J. H. , Bailey J. J. , Nass U. , Gruntman M. , Fahr H. J. , Goldstein J.
Published: December 2011

Abstract. Terrestrial exospheric atomic hydrogen (H) resonantly scatters solar Lyman-α (121.567 nm) radiation, observed as the glow of the H-geocorona. The Two Wide-angle Imaging Neutral-atom Spectrometers (TWINS) satellites are equiped with two Lyman-α line-of-sight Detectors (LADs) each. Since during the past solar minimum conditions the relevant solar control parameters practically did not vary, we are using LAD data between June and September 2008 to create a time averaged hydrogen geocorona model representative for these solar minimum conditions. In this averaged model we assume that the H-geocorona is longitudinally symmetric with respect to the earth-sun line. We find a 3-dimensional H-density distribution in the range from 3 to 8 earth radii which with some caution can also be extrapolated to larger distances. For lower geocentric distances than 3 earth radii a best fitting r-dependent Chamberlain (1963)-like model is adapted. Main findings are larger than conventionally expected H-densities at heights above 5 RE and a pronounced day-to-night side H-density asymmetry. The H-geocorona presented here should serve as a reference H-atmosphere for the earth during solar minimum conditions.
Unilateral Retinitis Pigmentosa: A Proposal of Genetic Pathogenic Mechanisms
Authors: Marsiglia Marcela , Duncker Tobias , Peiretti Enrico , Brodie Scott E. , Tsang Stephen H.
Published: November 2011

Purpose

To investigate and integrate anatomic and physiologic findings from a group of patients who present retinitis pigmentosa affecting just one eye and use this information to propose mechanisms of disease pathogenesis.

Methods

This prospective cross-sectional study examined 5 patients, all female, from 8 to 60 years old. The study was conducted in 4 university hospitals. The patients were selected according to the characteristics of ocular involvement, notably unilateral presentation of similar anatomic and functional abnormalities. Full-field electroretinogram, fundus photography, fundus autofluorescence, infrared imaging, optical coherence tomography, and genetic testing were performed.

Results

Full-field electroretinogram showed unilateral decrease in amplitude and increase in implicit time; autofluorescence showed unilateral areas of decreased intensity. The USH2AW4149R mutation was confirmed in one patient.

Conclusions

Imaging and functional testing are important in elucidating the unilateral pattern of the disease and in monitoring these individuals. Mosaicism or somatic mutation may cause unilateral genetic disease presentation.
On Delayed Choice and Contingent Absorber Experiments
Authors: Kastner R. E.
Published: December 2011

It is pointed out that a slight variation on the Wheeler Delayed Choice Experiment presents the same challenge to orthodox quantum mechanics as Maudlin-type contingent absorber experiments present to the Transactional Interpretation (TI). Therefore, the latter cannot be used as a basis for refutation of TI.
Loss of Expression of DNA Mismatch Repair Proteins Is Rare in Pancreatic and Small Intestinal Neuroendocrine Tumors
Authors: Arnason Thomas , Sapp Heidi L , Rayson Daniel , Barnes Penelope J , Drewniak Magdalena , Nassar Bassam A , Huang Weei-Yuarn
Published: December 2011

Context.—Two recent studies have identified a high rate of microsatellite instability (MSI) in pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (pNETs). Microsatellite instability is rare in small intestinal neuroendocrine tumors (NETs). It is unclear why there is discordance in the frequency of MSI in the 2 studies of pNETs and why this mechanism is comparatively rare in small intestinal tumors. Loss of expression of DNA mismatch repair (MMR) proteins, which is known to correlate strongly with MSI, is not well studied in pancreatic or small intestinal NETs.

Objective.—To determine if there is loss of expression of MMR protein expression in pancreatic or small intestinal NETs.

Design.—Sixty-nine patients (31 male, 38 female; mean age, 59.2 years) were identified who had a resection for a primary pancreatic (n  =  35) or primary small intestinal (n  =  34) NET during an 18-year period. Immunohistochemical stains for MLH1, MSH2, MSH6, and PMS2 were applied to archived tissue from all cases. All pNETs with adequate tissue (n  =  32) were also assessed by MSI analysis.

Results.—There was preserved expression of MLH1, MSH2, MSH6, and PMS2 in all 35 pNETs. Of 32 pNETs tested by polymerase chain reaction, 28 were microsatellite stable and DNA did not amplify in 4. In 34 small intestinal NETs, 2 cases had indeterminate MLH1 and 1 case had indeterminate PMS2 expression. The remainder had intact MMR protein expression.

Conclusion.—Defects in DNA MMR proteins are rare in pancreatic and small intestinal NETs, raising doubt that MSI plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of these tumors.
Acute Renal Failure Associated With Mannitol Intoxication
Authors: Whelan Thomas V. , Bacon Martin E. , Madden Michael , Patel T. G. , Handy Richard
Published: November 2011

Mannitol intoxication has been reported as a potentially life-threatening complication when the agent is used unrestrictedly in patients with established renal failure. We report a case of mannitol intoxication in which acute oliguric renal failure occurred without a known predisposing factor other than the Intravenous infusion of massive quantities of mannitol.
Synthesis of New Water‐Soluble Atropisomeric Ligands Derived from the MeOBIPHEP Skeleton: Applications for Asymmetric CH Bond Formation and Mechanistic Studies
Authors: Leseurre Lucie , Püntener Kurt , Genêt Jean‐Pierre , Scalone Michelangelo , Michelet Véronique
Published: November 2011

We have extended the methodology developed for the preparation of atropisomeric chiral ligands derived from the MeOBIPHEP ligand to water‐soluble ones. The hydrophilic ligands bearing sodium carboxylate and methylammonium chloride moieties were easily synthesized under mild conditions in a short sequence and in high yields. Their solubility and acid/base properties were also determined. The ruthenium(II) catalysts contain‐ ing 4‐CO2Na‐ and 3,5‐(CO2Na)2‐substituted MeOBIPHEP analogues showed excellent activities and led to the desired hydrogenated products derived from dimethyl itaconate and 2‐(4‐fluorophenyl)‐3‐methylcrotonic acid in ees≥92%. An investigation of the asymmetric hydrogenation of the latter substrate in D2O as solvent afforded an insight into the mechanism.
Brain mechanisms for processing affective touch
Authors: Gordon Ilanit , Voos Avery C. , Bennett Randi H. , Bolling Danielle Z. , Pelphrey Kevin A. , Kaiser Martha D.
Published: November 2011

Despite the crucial role of touch in social development, there is very little functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) research on brain mechanisms underlying social touch processing. The “skin as a social organ” hypothesis is supported by the discovery of C‐tactile (CT) nerves that are present in hairy skin and project to the insular cortex. CT‐fibers respond specifically well to slow, gentle touch such as that which occurs during close social interactions. Given the social significance of such touch researchers have proposed that the CT‐system represents an evolutionarily conserved mechanism important for normative social development. However, it is currently unknown whether brain regions other than the insula are involved in processing CT‐targeted touch. In the current fMRI study, we sought to characterize the brain regions involved in the perception of CT‐supported affective touch. Twenty‐two healthy adults received manual brush strokes to either the arm or palm. A direct contrast of the blood‐oxygenation‐level‐dependent (BOLD) response to gentle brushing of the arm and palm revealed the involvement of a network of brain regions, in addition to the posterior insula, during CT‐targeted affective touch to the arm. This network included areas known to be involved in social perception and social cognition, including the right posterior superior temporal sulcus and the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC)/dorso anterior cingulate cortex (dACC). Connectivity analyses with an mPFC/dACC seed revealed coactivation with the left insula and amygdala during arm touch. These findings characterize a network of brain regions beyond the insula involved in coding CT‐targeted affective touch. Hum Brain Mapp, 2013. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
In vitro evaluation of the surface effects on magnesium‐yttrium alloy degradation and mesenchymal stem cell adhesion
Authors: Johnson Ian , Perchy Daniel , Liu Huinan
Published: November 2011

Magnesium (Mg) alloys present many advantages over current materials used in medical implants and devices. However, the rapid degradation of Mg alloys can raise the local pH and create gas cavities. Fundamental understanding of their biodegradation processes is necessary for their success in clinical applications. This study investigated how the oxidized and polished surfaces of a Mg‐yttrium (Y) alloy affected the degradation mode and rate in cell culture media versus deionized water. The interactions of the alloy surfaces with cells were examined in vitro using bone marrow derived mesenchymal stem cells, since they are critical cells for bone tissue regeneration. The polished surface was more stable than the oxidized surface in cell culture media, but less stable in water. When comparing polished and oxidized surfaces, their degradation modes were similar in water, but different in cell culture media. The microstructure, roughness, and oxygen content of the alloy surface contributed to these differences. The presence or absence of a stable degradation layer determined the rate of Y loss and the inhibiting or promoting behavior of Y on degradation. The initial alloy surfaces not only influenced the degradation, but also determined cell attachment, which is critical for tissue integration. The polished surface showed more cell adhesion than the oxidized surface, mainly because of its slower degradation rate and lesser effect on the local pH. In conclusion, this study demonstrated that both the Mg alloy surfaces and the immersion fluids played important roles in controlling the degradation and cellular interactions. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A, 2012.
Romano-British Chimney-Pots and Finials
Authors: Lowther A. W. G.
Published: November 2011

The late A. W. G. Lowther had for long collected information on Romano-British ‘chimney-pots’ and in his final years concluded that this was the true function of his Group B, except where a closed base indicated use as ornamental roof-finials. New discoveries have enlarged his originally small Group A, wheel-made pottery vessels with side-openings, which may possibly have had a ritual function. His notes are now presented in a published form, with comments on dating, distribution, and continental parallels; the opportunity has also been taken of adding a short excursus on Romano-British stone finials.
Excavations at Winchester, 1970: Ninth Interim Report
Authors: Biddle Martin
Published: November 2011

Excavations in 1970 took place on three major and two smaller sites. The early Norman chapel discovered this year within the castle at Castle Yard was described in the previous interim report. At Lankhills sixty-eight fourth-century graves were examined, bringing the total excavated to 219. The graves can now be classified in an approximately chronological sequence according to contents and burial practice. At Lower Brook Street early fifth-century pottery of North German origin suggests the presence of mercenary or federate elements in the final stages of the Roman town. St. Mary's Church appears to have originated in the tenth century by the addition of an apse to an earlier rectangular stone building possibly of domestic character. In Houses IX and XII several phases of twelfth-century timber construction were excavated, but Houses X and XI, adjacent to St. Mary's to north and south, seem to have been open plots at this time. The later phases of St. Pancras' Church were examined and the twelfth-century church uncovered. On the Cathedral Green the excavation of Building E showed that it was the south range of a large courtyard complex, probably to be interpreted as the claustral buildings of New Minster in the period c. 1066–1110. Earlier stages may represent the infirmary of the Anglo-Saxon monastery. At Wolvesey Palace the east hall of c. 1130 was stripped and the later phases of its complex development worked out in detail. A ‘reredorter’ block added to the north end of the west hall about 1135 was cleared of many later phases of reconstruction. The excavation of the central courtyard revealed a twelfth-century well-house. A final season will take place in 1971.
A Decorated Bronze Mirror from an Iron Age Settlement at Holcombe, Near Uplyme, Devon
Authors: Fox Aileen , Pollard Sheila
Published: November 2011

The Holcombe mirror was found buried in a pit in a late Iron Age settlement, and beneath a Romano-British villa occupied from the late first until nearly the end of the fourth century A.D. A study of the design and motifs indicates that it was produced by a western school of metal-smiths active in the first half of the first century A.D.
Danebury, Hampshire. Third Interim Report on the Excavations 1976-80
Authors: Cunliffe Barry
Published: November 2011

The results of the excavations at the Iron Age hillfort at Danebury between 1977 and 1980 are briefly discussed. The main features include a number of Iron Age round houses found in stratigraphical sequence in the lee of the ramparts, rectangular buildings in the centre of the fort which may have had a religious function, and other occupation traces including pits and post-holes. Among the finds discussed are a Late Bronze Age/Early Iron Age bronze hoard, bronze horse trappings, and a scrap iron hoard containing cauldron hooks. Excavations are continuing.
The Origins of Gothic Architecture: Some Further Thoughts
Authors: Harvey John H.
Published: November 2011

In 1713 Sir Christopher Wren, then in his 81st year, reported on Westminster Abbey and took the opportunity to enunciate a theory of great importance in regard to the origins of Gothic architecture. Referring to the new church of Henry III he wrote:

This we now call the Gothic manner of architecture … I think it should with more reason be called the Saracen style, for these people wanted neither arts nor learning: and after we in the west lost both, we borrowed again from them, out of their Arabic books, what they with great diligence had translated from the Greeks.… The crusado gave us an idea of this form, after which King Henry built his church.… The Saracen mode of building, seen in the East, soon spread over Europe, and particularly in France, the fashions of which nation we affected to imitate in all ages, even when we were at enmity with it.
Anniversary Address
Authors: Wormald Francis
Published: November 2011

In the Anniversary Address which I delivered last year I gave notice that to celebrate the 250th Anniversary of the Society's continuous existence there would be a party in this building. This took place on Thursday, 12th October 1967, between 5.30 and 8.30 p.m. and was the first occasion on which the newly decorated hall and staircase were visible in all their glory, and glorious they certainly are when compared with those sombre tones which formerly greeted us. Not only has marbling been substituted for dull green, but some of the Society's possessions have been put on view in the entrance hall. The floor has also been relaid. The general effect is a good deal more splendid and more welcoming than before. As in other matters, which will be mentioned later, the Society is very much indebted to our Vice-President, Mr. Dufty, for all the trouble he took in this business, and in your name I would wish to thank him for his pains.
Excavations at Carthage 1974: First Interim Report
Authors: Hurst Henry
Published: November 2011

In the first season of excavation by a British team participating in the UNESCO Save Carthage Project, two sites in the harbour area and one inland were examined. On the site on the island in the circular harbour, the remains probably of the νεώρια described by Appian succeeded earlier Punic occupation periods and were in turn followed by two successive Roman temples and a building, probably a pharos, associated with the second temple. After this, there appears to have been domestic or commercial occupation in the fifth and sixth centuries A.D. On the north shore of the circular harbour, remains of the late Roman quayside and associated streets and buildings were found. On the inland site, situated to the south of the Roman street grid, there were the remains of third–fifth-century and fifth–sixth-century buildings fronting a street and backed by a substantial wall identified as the city wall constructed in the reign of Theodosius II.
Some evidence for a Dark Age trading site at Bantham, near Thurlestone, South Devon
Authors: Fox Aileen
Published: November 2011

Bantham is a small hamlet in the parish of Thurlestone, South Devon, five miles west of the market town of Kingsbridge. During the summer of 1953, to celebrate the Coronation, the people of Bantham arranged an exhibition of material illustrating their village history. The organizer, Mrs. Clare Fox, asked me to help in identifying some ‘Roman’ pottery and other objects that had been collected from the sand-dunes at the mouth of the river Avon near by, by Mr. H. L. Jenkins of Clanacombe in the late nineteenth century. The finds had been presented subsequently to the Torquay Natural History Society's Museum by Mrs. M. Radcliffe, his daughter-in-law, and were lent by the museum for the Bantham exhibition. The finds were found to include fragments of imported amphorae of Dark Age date, similar to those found at Garranes and Tintage and therefore to merit wider recognition. I am much indebted to Mrs. Fox for guidance to the site and for the history of the discoveries; to the Council and Curator (Mr. A. G. Madden) of the Torquay Museum for the loan of the objects; to Miss Theo Brown for their illustration; to my husband Cyril Fox for help with the map (fig. 5); and to Mr. G. C. Dunning for his description and drawing of the medieval finds.
Creswellian Site at Brigham, East Yorkshire
Authors: Manby T. G.
Published: November 2011

In the spring of 1962 Mr. W. Turner, the owner of a gravel pit at Brigham, noticed the unusual occurrence of flint flakes in the top soil being removed to extend his pit. He drew the attention of Messrs. C. & E. Grantham to the site and kindly granted permission for an excavation. The greater part of the flint site had been removed by this time and only a very small portion remained for excavation. The top soil from the site had been dumped on the floor of the pit and it was possible to recover the flint assemblage from it. The arduous task of examining the dumped soil and the remaining portion of the site was carried out during 1962 and 1963 by Messrs. C. & E. Grantham assisted by Messrs. B. Brigham, T. Clarke, P. Edgar, C. Graham, M. R. Petch, and the late T. W. Wadsworth.
‘The Old Work’ at the Roman Public Baths at Wroxeter
Authors: Webster Graham , Woodfield Paul
Published: November 2011

The Public Baths in the Roman town of Viroconium, the tribal centre of the Cornovii, have long attracted the attention of the antiquary through the miraculous preservation above ground of a length of walling. This is in fact one of the only three substantial portions of walls of Roman civil buildings in Britain which have survived the stone robbers of medieval and later times. The other two, the Mint Wall at Lincoln and the Jewry Wall at Leicester must owe their survival to being incorporated in later buildings in the middle of a medieval town. But at Wroxeter ‘The Old Work’, as it has been called since Camden's time, stands today as it has stood for centuries in the midst of cornfields. Why this wall should have stood while others were demolished and even their foundations grubbed out must remain a problem. It was clearly a place to begin excavations and Thomas Wright records that ‘on the 3rd February 1859 a pit was sunk against the northern side of the ‘Old Wall’. His excavation developed to the north and revealed the long basilican hall which can now be recognized as the palaestra of the Baths, although at the time this was not fully understood. Indeed after further work by G. E. Fox and W. H. St. John Hope in 1896 and 1899, summarized by F. Haverfield, the identification of this as the Basilica or lawcourts of the town persisted.
Excavations at Winchester 1965: Fourth Interim Report
Authors: Biddle Martin
Published: November 2011

In 1965 the Winchester Excavations Committee was again joined by the University of North Carolina and Duke University in excavations on five sites in the city. The work lasted eleven weeks from the latter part of June to the beginning of September and an average of 130 people took part, slightly under £10,000 being spent. Special thanks are due to the U.N.C.—Duke Committee, under the chairmanship of Professor F. T. de Vyver and including Professors Hall, Holcomb, Holmes, and Schnorrenberg, for their efforts which ensured the successful continuation of the Anglo-American co-operation. The heavy burden of administration was again carried by the City of Winchester, to whose Town Clerk, Mr. R. H. McCall, a special debt is owed, and the Hampshire County Council, particularly the Supplies Officer, Mr. R. E. V. Fardell. Through the good offices of the Army, Bushfield Camp was again made available and the Ministry of Public Building and Works gave great help in this connexion. All arrangements concerning volunteers were made by Mrs. J. Gosling, to whom particular thanks are due, and my own administrative work has been handled throughout by Mrs. M. Channer, to whom I am greatly indebted. Financial assistance from the following bodies is most gratefully acknowledged: the University of North Carolina, Duke University, the University of Exeter, the Old Dominion Foundation, the Ministry of Public Building and Works, the Hampshire County Council, the City of Winchester, the British Academy, the Society of Antiquaries, the British Museum, and many private donors. Additional funds were received in site collections and from the sale of publications, the whole of which, including guided tours of the sites, was organized by Mr. F. C. Mallett, Assistant Secretary of the Excavations Committee. The many problems of financial administration were again handled by Mr. W. D. Rider, City Treasurer, and his staff, particularly Mr. G. P. Grey.
Cirencester, 1967–8 Eighth Interim Report: I. The Excavations. II. The Mosaics
Authors: Brown P. D. C. , McWhirr Alan D. , Smith D. J.
Published: November 2011

Excavations in 1967–8 took place on the defences, the military rampart at Watermoor, and a number of sites within the town of Corinium. The defences on the north-west were found in the station yard and in a garden 400 feet further south. Two thicknesses of wall were noted, but no evidence survived to prove whether there had been a pre-wall rampart or not. During the restoration of the north-east defences another bastion was found only 78 feet from the site of bastion 3. Sites examined within the town were in Insulae I, II, VII, XIV, XXVI, and XXX. In the latter, another section of the possible theatre wall was found, whilst in XIV a house with four mosaics was excavated. The significance of the mosaics is fully discussed.
The Dating of Hamwih: Saxon Southampton Reconsidered
Authors: Cherry John F. , Hodges Richard
Published: November 2011

This paper briefly reviews the historical and artefactual evidence for the dating of the Middle Saxon settlement of Hamwih, Saxon Southampton. This is followed by a seriation of twenty selected pit-groups, each with varying quantities of the five classes of Middle Saxon pottery. The analysis suggests three clusters of pits, some of which can be dated using coins or ceramics found in them. The span of dates, however, is substantially shorter than has previously been proposed, and some possible explanations for this are briefly discussed.