bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genome-wide expression analysis upon constitutive activation of the HacA bZIP transcription factor in Aspergillus niger reveals a coordinated cellular response to counteract ER stress
Authors: Carvalho Neuza DSP , Jørgensen Thomas R , Arentshorst Mark , Nitsche Benjamin M , van den Hondel Cees AMJJ , Archer David B , Ram Arthur FJ
Published: July 2012

Background

HacA/Xbp1 is a conserved bZIP transcription factor in eukaryotic cells which regulates gene expression in response to various forms of secretion stress and as part of secretory cell differentiation. In the present study, we replaced the endogenoushacAgene of anAspergillus nigerstrain with a gene encoding a constitutively active form of the HacA transcription factor (HacACA). The impact of constitutive HacA activity during exponential growth was explored in bioreactor controlled cultures using transcriptomic analysis to identify affected genes and processes.

Results

Transcription profiles for the wild-type strain (HacAWT) and the HacACAstrain were obtained using Affymetrix GeneChip analysis of three replicate batch cultures of each strain. In addition to the well known HacA targets such as the ER resident foldases and chaperones, GO enrichment analysis revealed up-regulation of genes involved in protein glycosylation, phospholipid biosynthesis, intracellular protein transport, exocytosis and protein complex assembly in the HacACAmutant. Biological processes over-represented in the down-regulated genes include those belonging to central metabolic pathways, translation and transcription. A remarkable transcriptional response in the HacACAstrain was the down-regulation of the AmyR transcription factor and its target genes.

Conclusions

The results indicate that the constitutive activation of the HacA leads to a coordinated regulation of the folding and secretion capacity of the cell, but with consequences on growth and fungal physiology to reduce secretion stress.
Comparative molecular analyses of Borrelia burgdorferi sensu stricto strains B31 and N40D10/E9 and determination of their pathogenicity
Authors: Chan Kamfai , Awan Mehwish , Barthold Stephen W , Parveen Nikhat
Published: July 2012

Background

Lyme disease in the United States is caused primarily by B. burgdorferi sensu stricto while other species are also prevalent in Europe. Genetic techniques have identified several chromosomal and plasmid-borne regulatory and virulence factors involved in Lyme pathogenesis. B31 and N40 are two widely studied strains of B. burgdorferi, which belong to two different 16 S-23 S rRNA spacer types (RST) and outer surface protein C (OspC) allelic groups. However, the presence of several known virulence factors in N40 has not been investigated. This is the first comprehensive study that compared these two strains both in vitro and using the mouse model of infection.

Results

Phylogenetic analyses predict B31 to be more infectious. However, our studies here indicate that N40D10/E9 is more infectious than the B31 strain at lower doses of inoculation in the susceptible C3H mice. Based-upon a careful analyses of known adhesins of these strains, it is predicted that the absence of a known fibronectin-glycosaminoglycan binding adhesin, bbk32, in the N40 strain could at least partially be responsible for reduction in its binding to Vero cells in vitro. Nevertheless, this difference does not affect the infectivity of N40D10/E9 strain. The genes encoding known regulatory and virulence factors critical for pathogenesis were detected in both strains. Differences in the protein profiles of these B. burgdorferi strains in vitro suggest that the novel, differentially expressed molecules may affect infectivity of B. burgdorferi. Further exacerbation of these molecular differences in vivo could affect the pathogenesis of spirochete strains.

Conclusion

Based upon the studies here, it can be predicted that N40D10/E9 disseminated infection at lower doses may be enhanced by its lower binding to epithelial cells at the site of inoculation due to the absence of BBK32. We suggest that complete molecular analyses of virulence factors followed by their evaluation using the mouse infection model should form the basis of determining infectivity and pathogenicity of different strains rather than simple phylogenetic group analyses. This study further emphasizes a need to investigate multiple invasive strains of B. burgdorferi to fully appreciate the pathogenic mechanisms that contribute to Lyme disease manifestations.
Dual regulation of P-glycoprotein expression by Trichostatin A in cancer cell lines
Authors: Balaguer Trinidad Mata , Gómez-Martínez Angeles , García-Morales Pilar , Lacueva Javier , Calpena Rafael , Reverte Lourdes Rocamora , Riquelme Natividad Lopez , Martinez-Lacaci Isabel , Ferragut José A , Saceda Miguel
Published: July 2012

Background

It has been reported that the histone deacetylase inhibitor (iHDAc) trichostatin A (TSA) induces an increase in MDR1 gene transcription (ABCB1). This result would compromise the use of iHDACs in combination with other cytotoxic agents that are substrates of P-glycoprotein (Pgp). It has also been reported the use of alternative promoters by the ABCB1 gene and the existence of a translational control of Pgp protein. Finally, the ABCB1 gene is located in a genetic locus with the nested gene RUNDC3B in the complementary DNA strand, raising the possibility that RUNDC3B expression could interfere with ABCB1 alternative promoter regulation.

Methods

A combination of RT-PCR, real time RT-PCR, Western blot and drug accumulation assays by flow cytometry has been used in this study.

Results

The iHDACs-induced increase in MDR1 mRNA levels is not followed by a subsequent increase in Pgp protein levels or activity in several pancreatic and colon carcinoma cell lines, suggesting a translational control of Pgp in these cell lines. In addition, the MDR1 mRNA produced in these cell lines is shorter in its 5′ end that the Pgp mRNA produced in cell lines expressing Pgp protein. The different size of the Pgp mRNA is due to the use of alternative promoters. We also demonstrate that these promoters are differentially regulated by TSA. The translational blockade of Pgp mRNA in the pancreatic carcinoma cell lines could be related to alterations in the 5′ end of the MDR1 mRNA in the Pgp protein expressing cell lines. In addition, we demonstrate that the ABCB1 nested gene RUNDC3B expression although upregulated by TSA is independent of the ABCB1 alternative promoter used.

Conclusions

The results show that the increase in MDR1 mRNA expression after iHDACs treatment is clinically irrelevant since this mRNA does not render an active Pgp protein, at least in colon and pancreatic cancer cell lines. Furthermore, we demonstrate that TSA in fact, regulates differentially both ABCB1 promoters, downregulating the upstream promoter that is responsible for active P-glycoprotein expression. These results suggest that iHDACs such as TSA may in fact potentiate the effects of antitumour drugs that are substrates of Pgp. Finally, we also demonstrate that TSA upregulates RUNDC3B mRNA independently of the ABCB1 promoter in use.
Impaired distensibility of ascending aorta in patients with HIV infection
Authors: Zormpala Alexandra , Sipsas Nikolaos V , Moyssakis Ioannis , Georgiadou Sarah P , Gamaletsou Maria N , Kontos Athanasios N , Ziakas Panayiotis D , Kordossis Theodore
Published: July 2012

Background

Our aim was to investigate the aortic distensibility (AD) of the ascending aorta and carotid artery intima-media thickness (c-IMT) in HIV-infected patients compared to healthy controls.

Methods

One hundred and five HIV-infected patients (86 males [82%], mean age 41 ± 0.92 years), and 124 age and sex matched HIV-1 uninfected controls (104 males [84%], mean age 39.2 ± 1.03 years) were evaluated by high-resolution ultrasonography to determine AD and c-IMT. For all patients and controls clinical and laboratory factors associated with atherosclerosis were recorded.

Results

HIV- infected patients had reduced AD compared to controls: 2.2 ± 0.01 vs. 2.62 ± 0.01 10-6 cm2 dyn-1, respectively (p < 0.001). No difference was found in c-IMT between the two groups. In multiadjusted analysis, HIV infection was independently associated with decreased distensibility (beta –0.45, p < 0.001). Analysis among HIV-infected patients showed that patients exposed to HAART had decreased AD compared to HAART-naïve patients [mean (SD): 2.18(0.02) vs. 2.28(0.03) 10-6 cm2 dyn-1, p = 0.01]. In multiadjusted analysis, increasing age and exposure to HAART were independently associated with decreased AD.

Conclusion

HIV infection is independently associated with decreased distensibility of the ascending aorta, a marker of subclinical atherosclerosis. Increasing age and duration of exposure to HAART are factors further contributing to decreased AD.
Cardiac vagal control and theoretical models of co-occurring depression and anxiety: A cross-sectional psychophysiological study of community elderly
Authors: Chen Hsi-Chung , Yang Cheryl C H , Kuo Terry B J , Su Tung-Ping , Chou Pesus
Published: July 2012

Background

In order to elucidate the complex relationship between co-occurring depression and anxiety with cardiac autonomic function in the elderly, this study examined the correlation between cardiac vagal control (CVC) and pre-defined, theoretical factors from the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS).

Methods

Three hundred fifty-four randomly selected Chinese male subjects aged ≥65 years and living in the community were enrolled. CVC was measured using a frequency-domain index of heart rate variability.

Results

Confirmatory factor analysis showed that the flat tripartite model of HADS provided a modest advantage in model fit when compared with other theoretical factor solutions. In the flat tripartite model, there was a significant negative association between anhedonic depression and CVC. In contrast, autonomic anxiety showed a significant positive correlation with CVC. In the hierarchical tripartite model, negative affectivity was not directly associated with CVC; instead, it had positive and negative indirect effects on CVC via autonomic anxiety and anhedonic depression, respectively. As scores for negative affectivity increased, these specific indirect effects diminished.

Conclusions

Among competing models of co-occurring depression and anxiety, constructs from tripartite models demonstrate fair conformity with the data but unique and distinct correlations with CVC. Negative affectivity may determine the relationship of anhedonic depression and autonomic anxiety with CVC. Separating affective symptoms under the constructs of the tripartite models helps disentangle complex associations between co-occurring depression and anxiety with CVC.
Heterologous expression of human costimulatory molecule B7-2 and construction of B7-2 immobilized polyhydroxyalkanoate nanoparticles for use as an immune activation agent
Authors: Li Ming-Chuan , Liu Qian-Qian , Lu Xiao-Yun , Zhang Ya-Li , Wang Lei-Lei
Published: July 2012

Background

Costimulation of T cells via costimulatory molecules such as B7 is important for eliciting cell-mediated antitumor immunity. Presenting costimulation molecules by immobilizing recombinant B7 on the surface of nanovectors is a novel strategy for complementary therapy. Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) are a family of biodegradable, non-toxic, biocompatible polyesters, which can be used as a nonspecific immobilizing matrix for protein presentation. Recombinant protein fusion with PHA granule binding protein phasin (PhaP) can be easily immobilized on the surface of PHA nanoparticles through hydrophobic interactions between PhaP and PHA, and therefore provides a low-cost protein presenting strategy.

Results

In this study, the extracellular domain of the B7-2 molecule (also named as CD86) was fused with PhaP at its N-terminal and heterogeneously expressed in recombinant Escherichia coli strain BL21 (DE3). The purified B7-2-PhaP protein was immobilized on the surface of poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyhexanoate) (PHBHHx)-based nanoparticles. Loading of 240 μg (3.2 pMol) of B7-2-PhaP protein per mg nanoparticles was achieved. Immobilized B7-2-PhaP on PHBHHx nanoparticles induced T cell activation and proliferation in vitro.

Conclusions

A PHA nanoparticle-based B7-2 costimulation molecule-presenting system was constructed. The PHA-based B7 presenting nanosystem provided costimulation signals to induce T cell activation and expansion in vitro. The B7-2-PhaP immobilized PHA nanosystem is a novel strategy for costimulation molecule presentation and may be used for costimulatory molecule complementary therapy.
Zinc erythrocyte protoporphyrin as marker of malaria risk in pregnancy - a retrospective cross-sectional and longitudinal study
Authors: Senga Edward L , Koshy Gibby , Brabin Bernard J
Published: July 2012

Background

The effects of iron interventions and host iron status on infection risk have been a recurrent clinical concern, although there has been little research on this interaction in pregnant women.

Methods

Cross-sectional and longitudinal analyses were undertaken to determine the association of whole blood zinc erythrocyte protoporphyrin (ZPP) with malaria parasitaemia in pregnant women attending antenatal and delivery care at Montfort and Chikwawa Hospitals, Shire Valley, Malawi. Prevalence of antenatal, delivery and placental malaria was assessed in relation to maternal ZPP levels. The main outcome measures were prevalence of peripheral and placental Plasmodium falciparum parasitaemia and odds ratios of malaria risk.

Results

A total of 4,103 women were evaluated at first antenatal visit, of whom at delivery 1327 were screened for peripheral and 1285 for placental parasitaemia. Risk of malaria at delivery (peripheral or placental) was higher in primigravidae (p < 0.001), and lower (peripheral) with use of intermittent preventive anti-malarials during pregnancy (p < 0.001). HIV infection was associated with increased malaria parasitaemia (p < 0.02, peripheral or placental). Parasitaemia prevalence was lower in women with normal ZPP levels compared to those with raised concentrations at both first antenatal visit (all gravidae, p = 0.048, and at delivery (all gravidae, p < 0.001; primigravidae, p = 0.056). Between first antenatal visit and delivery women who transitioned from raised (at first antenatal visit) to normal ZPP values (at delivery) had lower peripheral parasitaemia prevalence at delivery compared to those who maintained normal ZPP values at both these visits (all gravidae: 0.70, 95%CI 0.4-1.1; primigravidae: 0.3, 0.1-0.8). In regression analysis this difference was lost with inclusion of HIV infection in the model.

Conclusions

Raised ZPP concentrations in pregnancy were positively associated with P. falciparum parasitaemia and were probably secondary to malaria inflammation, rather than indicating an increased malaria risk with iron deficiency. It was not possible from ZPP measurements alone to determine whether iron deficiency or repletion alters malaria susceptibility in pregnancy.
DNA-nanoparticle assemblies go organic: Macroscopic polymeric materials with nanosized features
Authors: Mentovich Elad D , Livanov Konstantin , Prusty Deepak K , Sowwan Mukules , Richter Shachar
Published: July 2012

Background

One of the goals in the field of structural DNA nanotechnology is the use of DNA to build up 2- and 3-D nanostructures. The research in this field is motivated by the remarkable structural features of DNA as well as by its unique and reversible recognition properties. Nucleic acids can be used alone as the skeleton of a broad range of periodic nanopatterns and nanoobjects and in addition, DNA can serve as a linker or template to form DNA-hybrid structures with other materials. This approach can be used for the development of new detection strategies as well as nanoelectronic structures and devices.

Method

Here we present a new method for the generation of unprecedented
all-organic
conjugated-polymer nanoparticle networks guided by DNA, based on a hierarchical self-assembly process. First, microphase separation of amphiphilic block copolymers induced the formation of spherical nanoobjects. As a second ordering concept, DNA base pairing has been employed for the controlled spatial definition of the conjugated-polymer particles within the bulk material. These networks offer the flexibility and the diversity of soft polymeric materials. Thus, simple chemical methodologies could be applied in order to tune the network's electrical, optical and mechanical properties.

Results and conclusions

One- two- and three-dimensional networks have been successfully formed. Common to all morphologies is the integrity of the micelles consisting of DNA block copolymer (DBC), which creates an all-organic engineered network.
Developing a comprehensive time series of GDP per capita for 210 countries from 1950 to 2015
Authors: James Spencer L , Gubbins Paul , Murray Christopher JL , Gakidou Emmanuela
Published: July 2012

Background

Income has been extensively studied and utilized as a determinant of health. There are several sources of income expressed as gross domestic product (GDP) per capita, but there are no time series that are complete for the years between 1950 and 2015 for the 210 countries for which data exist. It is in the interest of population health research to establish a global time series that is complete from 1950 to 2015.

Methods

We collected GDP per capita estimates expressed in either constant US dollar terms or international dollar terms (corrected for purchasing power parity) from seven sources. We applied several stages of models, including ordinary least-squares regressions and mixed effects models, to complete each of the seven source series from 1950 to 2015. The three US dollar and four international dollar series were each averaged to produce two new GDP per capita series.

Results and discussion

Nine complete series from 1950 to 2015 for 210 countries are available for use. These series can serve various analytical purposes and can illustrate myriad economic trends and features. The derivation of the two new series allows for researchers to avoid any series-specific biases that may exist. The modeling approach used is flexible and will allow for yearly updating as new estimates are produced by the source series.

Conclusion

GDP per capita is a necessary tool in population health research, and our development and implementation of a new method has allowed for the most comprehensive known time series to date.
Endogenous MOV10 inhibits the retrotransposition of endogenous retroelements but not the replication of exogenous retroviruses
Authors: Arjan-Odedra Shetal , Swanson Chad M , Sherer Nathan M , Wolinsky Steven M , Malim Michael H
Published: July 2012

Background

The identification of cellular factors that regulate the replication of exogenous viruses and endogenous mobile elements provides fundamental understanding of host-pathogen relationships. MOV10 is a superfamily 1 putative RNA helicase that controls the replication of several RNA viruses and whose homologs are necessary for the repression of endogenous mobile elements. Here, we employ both ectopic expression and gene knockdown approaches to analyse the role of human MOV10 in the replication of a panel of exogenous retroviruses and endogenous retroelements.

Results

MOV10 overexpression substantially decreased the production of infectious retrovirus particles, as well the propagation of LTR and non-LTR endogenous retroelements. Most significantly, RNAi-mediated silencing of endogenous MOV10 enhanced the replication of both LTR and non-LTR endogenous retroelements, but not the production of infectious retrovirus particles demonstrating that natural levels of MOV10 suppress retrotransposition, but have no impact on infection by exogenous retroviruses. Furthermore, functional studies showed that MOV10 is not necessary for miRNA or siRNA-mediated mRNA silencing.

Conclusions

We have identified novel specificity for human MOV10 in the control of retroelement replication and hypothesise that MOV10 may be a component of a cellular pathway or process that selectively regulates the replication of endogenous retroelements in somatic cells.
Effect of influenza vaccines against mismatched strains: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Tricco Andrea C , Chit Ayman , Hallett David , Soobiah Charlene , Meier Genevieve , Chen Maggie , Tashkandi Mariam , Bauch Chris , Loeb Mark
Published: July 2012

Background

Influenza vaccines are most effective when the antigens in the vaccine match those of circulating influenza strains. The extent to which the vaccine is protective when circulating strains differ from vaccine antigens, or are mismatched, is uncertain. We propose to systematically review the cross-protection offered by influenza vaccines against circulating influenza A or B viruses that are not antigenically well-matched to vaccine strains.

Methods/Design

This is a protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis. Placebo-controlled randomized clinical trials (RCTs) reporting laboratory-confirmed influenza among healthy participants vaccinated with antigens of influenza strains that differed from those circulating will be included. The primary outcome is the incidence of laboratory-confirmed influenza (polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or viral culture). The secondary outcome is the incidence of laboratory-confirmed influenza through antibody assay (a less sensitive test than PCR or viral culture) alone or combined with PCR, and/ or viral culture. The review will be limited to RCTs written in English.

We will search MEDLINE, EMBASE, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, previous influenza reviews, and the reference lists of included studies to identify potentially relevant RCTs. Two independent reviewers will conduct all levels of screening, data abstraction, and quality appraisal (using the Cochrane risk of bias tool).

If appropriate, random effects meta-analysis of vaccine efficacy will be conducted in SAS (version 9.2) by calculating the relative risk. Vaccine efficacy will be calculated using the following formula: (1 - relative risk × 100). The results will be analyzed by type of vaccine (live attenuated, trivalent inactivated, or other). Subgroup analysis will include the effects of age (children, adults, older participants), and influenza A versus influenza B on the results. For influenza B we will also consider variable degrees of antigenic mismatch (lineage and drift mismatch).

Discussion

Our results can be used by researchers and policy-makers to help predict the efficacy of influenza vaccines during mismatched influenza seasons. Furthermore, the review will be of interest to patients and clinicians to determine whether to get immunized or support immunization for a particular influenza season.
Effects of operator parameters, anions and cations on the degradation of AY99 in an aqueous solution using Fenton’s reagent. Optimization and kinetics study
Authors: Bouasla Chafia , Ismail Fadhel , Samar Mohamed El-Hadi
Published: July 2012

In the present work, the decolourization of azo dye Acid Yellow 99 (AY99) in an aqueous solution by Fenton oxidation process was investigated. The results indicated that the initial pH, the nature of the acid to adjust pH, the temperature and the initial concentrations of the Fenton’s reagent FeSO4 of H2O2 and of the AY99 played an important role on the dye decolourization. It was found that under optimum conditions, which have been determined to be pH = 3, [H2O2]0 = 1.8 mmol/L, [Fe2+]0 = 0.09 mmol/L, [AY]0 = 0.06 mmol/L and T = 30°C, efficiency of degradation obtained after 40 min of reaction was about 95%. The decolourization of AY99 by the Fenton process followed the second-order reaction kinetics. The empirical kinetic equation for AY99 decolourization under the conditions of 0.03 to 0.15 mmol/L of Fe2+, 0.9 to 1.8 mmol/L of H2O2, 0.03 to 0.15 mmol/L of Acid Yellow and pH = 3 was found to follow the relation:

K = 6.39 × 107 [AY] −2.8[H2O2]2.29[FeSO4]0.837 exp (−7021.3/T).

The decolourization efficiency Ef (in percent) was 88.36%, 87.93%, 85.98% and 39.61% in the presence of H2SO4, HNO3, HCl and H3PO4 acids, respectively. We can deduce that H2SO4, HNO3 and HCl acids lead almost to the same efficiency (Ef), but in the presence of H3PO4, it is too low:

Ef (H2SO4) ~ Ef (HNO3) > Ef (HCl) > > Ef (H3PO4).

Effects of additives such as inorganic salts (sodium chloride, calcium chloride, sodium sulphate and calcium sulphate) and cations (sodium sulphate, calcium sulphate, copper sulphate, manganese sulphate and magnesium sulphate) on the efficiency (Ef) and on the rate constant (k
2) of AY99 degradation were also studied under optimum conditions.

Ef (Na2SO4) > Ef (CaSO4) > Ef (NaCl) > Ef (CaCl2)

k
2 (CaCl2) < k
2 (NaCl) < k
2 (CaSO4) < k
2 (Na2SO4)

Ef (ZnSO4) > Ef (MgSO4) > Ef (Na2SO4) > Ef (CaSO4) > Ef (CuSO4) > Ef (MnSO4)

k
2 (Na2SO4) < k
2 (MnSO4) < k
2 (CuSO4) < k
2 (CaSO4) < k
2 (ZnSO4) < k
2 (MgSO4).

The presence of anions and cations in the aqueous solution decreases the decolourization efficiency and the rate constant of the degradation of AY99. This inhibition may be due to a complexation and a radical scavenging.
High-throughput mammographic-density measurement: a tool for risk prediction of breast cancer
Authors: Li Jingmei , Szekely Laszlo , Eriksson Louise , Heddson Boel , Sundbom Ann , Czene Kamila , Hall Per , Humphreys Keith
Published: July 2012

Introduction

Mammographic density (MD) is a strong, independent risk factor for breast cancer, but measuring MD is time consuming and reader dependent. Objective MD measurement in a high-throughput fashion would enable its wider use as a biomarker for breast cancer. We use a public domain image-processing software for the fully automated analysis of MD and penalized regression to construct a measure that mimics a well-established semiautomated measure (Cumulus). We also describe measures that incorporate additional features of mammographic images for improving the risk associations of MD and breast cancer risk.

Methods

We randomly partitioned our dataset into a training set for model building (733 cases, 748 controls) and a test set for model assessment (765 cases, 747 controls). The Pearson product-moment correlation coefficient (r) was used to compare the MD measurements by Cumulus and our automated measure, which mimics Cumulus. The likelihood ratio test was used to validate the performance of logistic regression models for breast cancer risk, which included our measure capturing additional information in mammographic images.

Results

We observed a high correlation between the Cumulus measure and our measure mimicking Cumulus (r = 0.884; 95% CI, 0.872 to 0.894) in an external test set. Adding a variable, which includes extra information to percentage density, significantly improved the fit of the logistic regression model of breast cancer risk (P = 0.0002).

Conclusions

Our results demonstrate the potential to facilitate the integration of mammographic density measurements into large-scale research studies and subsequently into clinical practice.
The Competition of Two Discourses: The Making of a New Ideology in China
Authors: Zhuoyue Huang
Published: July 2012

With the transformation and development of Chinese society, it has become increasingly difficult to draw a clear picture of the political affiliation of the contemporary Chinese government. This thesis is intended, through detailed theoretical tracing, to develop the concept of “social ideology” so as to offer an in-depth analysis of contemporary China's dominant mentality. It is suggested that a dominant ideology has emerged that has totally restructured social organization and people's perception of everyday life. Furthermore, this thesis fully explores changes that have taken place in Beijing's primary schools and high schools over the past few years and shows how this new ideology has disrupted humane and civic education and brought the entire nation into a norm of instrumental mentality.
A Time to Gather Stones: Nomadism After War in Susanne Slavick's Out of Rubble
Authors: Roger Denson G.
Published: July 2012

Susanne Slavick's Out of Rubble is an exhibition in a book that boldly epitomizes the new, globally nomadic curation of art representative of current concerns of the world's vital cultures, both ancient and modern. Although the motif of rubble is chosen by Slavick to index the ubiquitous features of war and its aftermath, the artworks included herein equally represent indigenous cultures' intent to reinforce and maintain local customs and values as a defense against both reactionary regional insurgencies that embrace modernity from within and the long arm of homogenizing forces that are insidiously imposed from without, internationally. Although largely unintentional, Slavick's essay and selection of art combined present the scholar and critic of theory and ideology with a fascinating study of the ongoing tension between the current predilection for commentary and analysis of conflict and the universal visual signage of war that compels a more immediate response. This tension agitates beneath the surface of Slavick's study, renewing the debate between poststructuralist and existentialist analyses of conflict. Whereas the poststructuralist commentary is ideally suited for exhuming the archeology and economics of war, it is prone to textual insularity. By contrast, the existentialist reading, particularly well suited to the imagery of the aftermath of war, is given to overly metaphysical, if at times overwrought, ideological melodrama. Meanwhile, Slavick's selection of artworks reconciles two threads of the art-making process that are exceedingly relevant to cultures grappling with the effects of war: the direct experience of war knowable only by living through it and the empathetic response to war gathered and “known” through the media. In less capable hands, the distinct responses would polarize to the point of canceling each other out. It is to Slavick's credit that she manages to make the two seem equally viable, even complementary.
“I Want a Baby; Don't Stop Me from Being a Mother”: An Ethnographic Study on Fertility Tourism and Egg Trade
Authors: Lundin Susanne
Published: July 2012

The increasing demand for human egg cells has led to reproductive tourism and a transnational egg trade. The activity flourishes due to poverty and criminality, as well as medical needs (infertility) and cultural needs (the dream of parenthood). Other factors are fundamental concepts, such as the view of the body as an object of utility and value. This article aims to go behind the normative discussions that usually surround different forms of assisted reproductive technology (ART), fertility tourism, and the egg trade. It further calls for an understanding of how the local, culturally embedded use of reproductive technology is put into practice. The material, collected from Sweden, Eastern Europe, and the Middle East, consists of observations, in-depth interviews, reports from nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) and authorities in these countries, and global media reporting. I also draw on my previous research on reproductive technology and ongoing organ-trafficking fieldwork.
China as Humanist Exemplum
Authors: Vukovich Daniel
Published: July 2012

This essay addresses the “demand for humanism, with a nod toward Asia” within current theory and global intellectual political culture. I argue that using humanism as a way to understand China (a habit inside and especially outside the PRC) keeps us within the orientalist tradition; it is also at odds with China's attempted/failed/ongoing revolution and trajectory since 1949. I offer an interdisciplinary analysis of area studies and other representations of China, especially in regard to Tiananmen and the Cultural Revolution. I then contrast this with current intellectual debates in China as well as with an older Maoist or revolutionary discourse. The resurgence or “demand” for humanism is rendered as part of an intellectual and political backlash or depoliticization.
Corporate Dentistry in 2032?
Authors: Watson Michael
Published: July 2012

During the last 20 years, there has been considerable growth in the number of dental practices owned by corporate bodies. At present, well over 800 practices are owned by such bodies and they employ over 3000 dentists. This paper describes the factors that have led to this growth and explores the advantages and disadvantages of ‘corporate’ dentistry for patients, dentists, and the dental team. It then considers how and why dental practice may change over the next 20 years and concludes that by 2032 the small one-dentist practice may well be in the past. It is likely that smaller practices will have to work in some form of association if they are to survive. Although their current model is unstable, corporates are likely to adapt to a changing environment. By 2032, in some cases, dentistry may well be taken out of its conventional setting, into supermarkets or a school environment.
Policy as palimpsest
Authors: Carter Pam
Published: July 2012

A palimpsest is a multi-layered text that is reinscribed over time. This article presents policy as analogous to a palimpsest to highlight implementation processes and the complexity of judging progress. Findings from an ethnographic study of the UK Sure Start Children’s Centres policy demonstrate how implementation is experienced locally. Here religious beliefs and traditional cultures influence implementation and persistent social structures are in tension with rapid policy shifts or ‘initiativitis’. Perceptions of progress depend on how history is interpreted, how policy is framed and how the future is imagined. Unintended consequences are produced as a local policy-palimpsest is enacted.
The social division of welfare knowledge: policy stratification and perceptions of welfare reform in Australia
Authors: Wilson Shaun , Meagher Gabrielle , Hermes Kerstin
Published: July 2012

During its period in office (1996–2007), the Liberal–National coalition government increased stratification in the Australian welfare system by differentiating the norms and instruments applied to claimants groups. This article explores whether Australians accurately registered these developments by comparing voter assessments of policy generosity to different groups with an objective assessment of the direction of policy change. We find that voters were more likely to have recognised increased generosity to the middle class, and to have underestimated the tougher policies faced by some groups at the bottom of the socioeconomic scale. Their misrecognition of hardship raises broader questions for the political sociology of the welfare state.
Interests, institutions and ideas: explaining Irish social security policy
Authors: Murphy Mary
Published: July 2012

The focus of this article is the interaction of institutions, interests and ideas as explanatory factors for change and continuity in welfare regimes. The case study of the politics of Irish social security (1986–2010) explores how and why the Irish social security system has diverged from the United Kingdom (UK) and liberal regimes. The argument favours a balanced explanation over institutional explanations, which stress corporatism as the explanatory factor for the Irish case. This more integrated approach enables a fuller consideration of the impact that seismic political change may have on Irish and UK social security reform and allows greater understanding about conditions underlying stability and change in social policy.
Removal of U(VI) from aqueous solutions by the nano-iron oxyhydroxides
Authors: Sun Y. B. , Yang Shitong , Sheng G. D. , Wang Q. , Guo Z. Q. , Wang X. K.
Published: July 2012

The nano-iron oxyhydroxides (α- and γ-FeOOH) were synthesized by oxidation of the various raw materials (FeSO4 and FeCl2) as iron precursors under alkaline conditions. Morphologies of nano-iron oxyhydroxides were characterized by high resolution transmission electron microscope (HRTEM), X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) and specific surface area (SSA), respectively. The removal of U(VI) from aqueous solution by nano-iron oxyhydroxides was also investigated as a function of contact time, U(VI) concentration, pH, ionic strength and temperature under ambient conditions. The occurrence of needle-like shape of nano-goethite and rod-like shape of nano- lepidocrocite were attributed to oxidization of Fe2+ under different conditions in terms of XRD analysis and HRTEM images. The sorption results indicated that the removal of U(VI) strongly depended on pH and were independent of ionic strength. Langmuir model was employed to model the sorption isotherms of U(VI) at three various temperatures of 293, 313 and 333 K. The thermodynamic parameters (Δ Hº, Δ Sº and Δ Gº) computed from the temperature showed that sorption process of U(VI) on nano-iron oxyhydroxides was endothermic and spontaneous. The mechanism of U(VI) sorption on nano-iron oxyhydroxides was assumed to outer-sphere surface complexation at low pH (pH < 5.0) and at low ionic strength conditions (IS = 0.01 M NaClO4), whereas the uptake of U(VI) was dominated by surface precipitation at high pH conditions. Thereby nano-iron oxyhydroxides can be used as an efficient backfill materials for the in situ disposal of U(VI)-bearing contaminated groundwater.
Spectroscopic investigations of Np(V/VI) redox speciation in hyperalkaline TMA-(OH, Cl) solutions
Authors: Gaona Xavier , Tits Jan , Dardenne Kathy , Liu Xiaolan , Rothe Jörg , Denecke Melissa A. , Wieland Erich , Altmaier Marcus
Published: July 2012

The redox chemistry of Np(V/VI) was investigated in ∼0.6 M tetramethylammonium hydroxide/chloride (TMA-(OH, Cl)) solutions with 9 ≤ −log [H+] ≤ 13.5. Redox conditions were defined by the absence or presence of ClO− as oxidizing agent (Na-salt, 5 × 10−3 M and 5 × 10−2 M). The high total Np concentration ([Np]tot ∼ 2 × 10−3 M) led to the precipitation of solid phases in some of the samples. The carbonate concentration (as impurity of TMA-OH) was 2–3 × 10−3 M.

UV-vis/NIR spectra obtained from the supernatant in TMA-(OH, Cl) solutions and absence of ClO− showed clear Np(V) features, identified as NpO2
+, NpO2CO3
− and (NpO2)
x
(CO3)
y
(OH)
z

x−2y−z
. No NIR features were observed within 800 nm ≤ λ ≤ 1300 nm for samples with ClO−. XANES edge energies and features of these samples confirmed the predominance of Np(V) in the absence of ClO− and Np(VI) in the presence of ClO−, by comparison to XANES reference spectra of Np(III/IV/V/VI) prepared within the present work by in-situ electrolysis. A similar Np redox distribution was observed for the solid phases based on XANES and EXAFS measurements. EXAFS spectra indicative of NpVO2OH(s) and NpVIO3· xH2O(s) were obtained for samples in absence and presence of ClO−, respectively. The formation of a Na-Np(VI) phase in 5 × 10−2 M ClO− and −log [H+] ∼ 12 was also indicated from the EXAFS, chemical analysis and SEM-EDS.

These results indicate that Np(VI) aqueous species and solid compounds prevail far below the oxidation border of water in alkaline solutions and also far below the E
H border calculated with the current NEA data selection [1]. These observations are further supported by correlations of literature thermodynamic data for actinides (U, Np, Pu and Am), which predict the formation of NpO2(OH)3
− and NpO2(OH)4
2− aqueous species with stability constants (log *
βº1,3 and log *
βº1,4) similar to those available for U(VI).
Nuclear and radiochemistry in China: present status and future perspectives
Authors: Shi W.-Q. , Zhao Y.-L. , Chai Z.-F.
Published: July 2012

Nuclear and radiochemistry is one of the frontier areas of chemistry with high impact on national security, energy supply, scientific advances, social and economic development. Nuclear and radiochemistry in China is now experiencing a renaissance, which is being strongly motivated by China’s huge demand for nuclear energy. With this in review, the progress in nuclear and radiochemistry of China is selectively addressed. Some hot topics have been summarized and the main research results achieved by Chinese scientists in this field are highlighted, with emphasis on the basic nuclear chemistry, actinide and trans-actinide chemistry, chemistry of spent nuclear fuel reprocessing, radioanalytical chemistry, environmental radiochemistry and radiopharmaceutical chemistry, etc. Some measures about how to promote the radiochemical education and research in China are suggested, and future perspectives are briefly outlined as well.
Nanomaterials and nanotechnologies in nuclear energy chemistry
Authors: Shi W.-Q. , Yuan L.-Y. , Li Z.-J. , Lan J.-H. , Zhao Y.-L. , Chai Z.-F.
Published: July 2012

With the rapid growth of human demands for nuclear energy and in response to the challenges of nuclear energy development, the world’s major nuclear countries have started research and development work on advanced nuclear energy systems in which new materials and new technologies are considered to play important roles. Nanomaterials and nanotechnologies, which have gained extensive attention in recent years, have shown a wide range of application potentials in future nuclear energy system. In this review, the basic research progress in nanomaterials and nanotechnologies for advanced nuclear fuel fabrication, spent nuclear fuel reprocessing, nuclear waste disposal and nuclear environmental remediation is selectively highlighted, with the emphasis on Chinese research achievements. In addition, the challenges and opportunities of nanomaterials and nanotechnologies in future advanced nuclear energy system are also discussed.
The impact of the properties of the heaviest elements on the chemical and physical sciences
Authors: Kratz J. V.
Published: July 2012

The unique role of the heaviest elements in chemical and physical sciences is discussed. With the actinide series (Z = 90-103) and the superactinide series (Z = 122-155), the heaviest elements have significantly shaped the architecture of the Periodic Table of the elements. Relativistic effects in the electron shells of the heaviest elements change the chemical properties in a given group in a non-linear fashion. Relativistically stabilized sub-shell closures give rise to a new category of elements in the Periodic Table: volatile metals. The prototype for this property is element 114 which, due to the relativistic stabilization of its 7s2 7p2
1/2 electron configuration, is volatile in its elementary state, but, in contrast to a noble gas, exhibits a marked metalmetal interaction with a gold surface at room temperature. Nuclear shell effects dominate the physical properties of the transuranium elements. These give rise to superdeformed shape isomers (fission isomers) in the actinides (U-Bk). Superheavy elements (Z ≥ 104) owe their existence solely to nuclear shell effects at N = 152, 162, and 184. At this time, a building lot is the location of the next spherical proton shell closure as there is evidence that the center of the “island of stability” is not at Z = 114. This needs urgently further theoretical and experimental efforts. The cross sections for the syntheses of elements 119 and 120 will give us important information on the “upper end of the Periodic Table of the elements”.
Two-mode fission – experimental verification and characterization of two fission-modes
Authors: Nagame Y. , Nakahara H.
Published: July 2012

Experimental verification and characterization of the two-mode fission are reviewed. The presence of two independent deformation-paths in low energy fission of actinides is demonstrated by studying correlation among saddle-point configurations, scission-point configurations, and mass-yield distributions; the elongated scission configuration is related with the fission process that goes over a higher threshold energy and results in a symmetric mass-division mode, while the compact scission configuration with the process that experiences a lower threshold ends up with an asymmetric mass-division mode. Based on an extensive systematic analysis of scission properties in a wide range of actinide fission, the bimodal fission observed in the spontaneous fission of the heavy actinides is interpreted as the result of the presence of two fission paths, namely, the ordinary asymmetric fission path and a strongly shell-influenced symmetric mode.
“Filipinos are the Dandies of the Foreign Colonies”: Race, Labor Struggles, and the Transpacific Routes of Hollywood and Philippine Films, 1924–1948
Authors: Khor Denise
Published: July 2012

In the 1930s and 1940s Filipino laborers, many of whom were en route to agricultural hubs on the Pacific Coast, packed into movie theaters owned by Japanese immigrants to view Hollywood and Philippine-produced films. These cultural encounters formed an urban public sphere that connected both sides of the Pacific. Filipino patrons remade their public identities and communities through their consumption of film and urban leisure in the western city. This article traces this localized history of spectatorship and exhibition in order to reconsider prevailing understandings of the history of the U.S. West and the rise of cinema and mass commercial culture in the early twentieth century.
“A Saga of Democracy”: Toy Len Goon, American Mother of the Year, and the Cultural Cold War
Authors: Yeh Chiou-Ling
Published: July 2012

In 1952 Toy Len Goon, an unknown Chinese immigrant, a widowed mother of eight, and a laundry shop owner, was selected to be Maine Mother of the Year and later won the national title as American Mother of the Year. The news was circulated widely in domestic media, propaganda abroad, the Chinese American press, and newspapers in Taiwan. This article examines the meaning of how a self-employed Chinese mother, against the dominant discourse of white, middle-class domesticity, was promoted as a rhetorical tool domestically and globally in the Cold War ideology of containment and integration. The Goon case illustrates the complexity of the cultural Cold War and indexes the ways that multiple layers of power and resistance operated under the banner of containment.
ZrO2 Layer Thickness and Field Dependent Leakage Current in Ba0.8Sr0.2TiO3/ZrO2 Heterostructured Thin Films
Authors: Sahoo Santosh K. , Sahoo Manjulata , Majhi Banshidhar
Published: July 2012

Heterostructured Ba0.8Sr0.2TiO3/ZrO2/Ba0.8Sr0.2TiO3 thin films are fabricated on the platinized Si substrates by a sol-gel process. The current versus voltage measurements are taken on these films by varying the thickness of ZrO2 layer. We have found that inserting a ZrO2 layer in between two BST layers results in a significant reduction in leakage current which is very essential for the low dissipation energy and hence faster operation of memory devices. It is observed that the leakage current further decreases as the ZrO2layer thickness increases. Also it is seen that different conduction mechanisms are contributing to the leakage current in the different field regions. Poole-Frenkel (PF), space charge limited current (SCLC), and Ohmic mechanisms are the dominating conduction processes in high, medium, and low field regions respectively. An energy band diagram is given to explain the Ohmic conduction in the low field region and the Poole-Frenkel conduction mechanism in the high field region for these devices.
Impact of curing condition on chemical stability of ultralow-k PMO material.
Authors: Krishtab M. B. , Zhang L. , Le Q. T. , Vanstreels K. , Souriau L. , Phillips M. , Baklanov M. R.
Published: July 2012

In this work a new generation of periodic mesoporous organosilica (PMO) low-k dielectrics with targeted k-values 2.0 and 1.8 is evaluated. In addition, impact of two different curing processes on properties of the mesoporous material is analyzed. It is shown that removal of templating organics with thermal annealing leads to formation of mechanically robust and chemically very stable material, while application of UV-assisted curing with broadband lamp (λ > 200 nm) causes pronounced decrease of film ability to sustain in diluted HF solution. The explanation of that phenomenon is given in terms of silica-ring structures formed within organosilica skeleton.